 PSU finding Lions in ConnecticutWith running back Silas Redd committed, another may come in linebacker Khairi Fortt. Updated: 05/05/2009 10:09:44 PM EDT
One high school star from Connecticut is already in the Nittany Lions' fold -- and an even bigger catch could be on the way before long.
Certainly, Penn State football recruiting has heated up dramatically over the past week with three verbal commitments, including up-and-coming national star receiver Adrian Coxson of Baltimore, Pittsburgh-area offensive lineman Luke Graham and Connecticut running back Silas Redd.
So, of Penn State's five commitments for the Class of 2010 so far, four already are rated as four-star (out of five) prospects by the national experts. Only Penn Trafford High's Graham, who may only need to fill out with needed pounds to match his potential, is not yet regarded among the nation's top 200 prospects by Rivals.com.
The most intriguing recent pledge is from Redd.
The 5-foot-10, 198-pounder piled up 1,356 yards and 15 touchdowns in only eight games last fall at the King & Low Heywood Thomas School in Stamford, Conn. He ended up choosing Penn State over scholarship offers from Stanford, Oregon, Boston College, Connecticut, Virginia and others.
He reportedly has been a Penn State fan since he was a kid and possesses great versatility, as he also is highly regarded as a potential cornerback in college. He reportedly is considering enrolling early next January.
"If he was from Pennsylvania or down in the South, he would have 40 offers," said Mike Farrell, a recruiting analyst with
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The thing is, another Connecticut prospect is strongly considering the Lions, too. Stamford High linebacker Khairi Fortt is rated as one of the top-five linebackers in the country by many and already has the size (6-3, 220) and frame to be a future dominator inside or outside.
The Lions are apparently one of his top considerations.
During a recruiting visit, Fortt was flocked by autograph-seekers in Beaver Stadium before the Blue-White Game.
"Another kid with a terrific work ethic," Farrell said. "His upside is as high as any linebacker ..."
Among Fortt's other offers are Notre Dame, Michigan, California and Boston College.
Penn State's most recent commitment, though, is from Graham. Though his 6-5 frame needs to add much more to his 245 pounds, his strengths include quick feet, speed and a huge wingspan.
He chose the Lions over Florida State, Maryland, Pitt, Syracuse and Virginia.
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Joe Paterno said the incident involving marijuana found in an apartment of four players has been "blown way out of proportion," according to The Associated Press
Paterno said the four students renting the apartment weren't there when police arrived. Paterno was speaking Tuesday at a function with Penn State alumni and boosters near Washington, D.C.
fbodani@ydr.com; 771-2104
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