Jeff Banks may have the best reputation as a recruiter on Texas’ staff. Steve Sarkisian has put him on some of the most high-profile prospects, ones who would fall under the “must get” category.
Even so, the Longhorns have strayed away from chasing tight ends during the 2022 cycle. Banks’ position group is in a solid spot on the depth chart with Cade Brewer, Jared Wiley, and three promising true freshmen.
Jaleel Skinner has been the exception so far. The four-star tight end has caught the eye of Banks, making him the only true target on the board. An official visit on June 24 helped make the interest mutual as well.
Alabama, Clemson, Florida, Florida State, Miami, and Texas are seen as the finalists for Skinner. He originally planned on announcing his school of choice on Oct. 9 but the tight end has moved his commitment date up by one day.
CBS Sports HQ will be how you can watch, live at 2:30 CDT.
Friday‼️ pic.twitter.com/TTq3dI21SX
— Jaleel Skinner (@jaleel_skinner) October 5, 2021
Three days out, Alabama seems to be the leader. Multiple 247Sports crystal balls predictions have been inserted in favor of the Crimson Tide over the past couple of days. Florida State was seen as the leader over the summer but a 1-4 start has hurt Mike Norvell’s recruiting.
Even if Alabama ends up being the pick, Texas will still fight to get Skinner back on campus for a visit. Nothing is ever official in recruiting until the fax is sent on national signing day. Especially with a Red River Shootout performance pending the next day.
Skinner is seen as a wide receiver more than anything, however, his 6-5, 210-pound frame will force him to move to tight end. Sarkisian’s use of 12 personnel could be a selling point as Skinner is able to use his pass-catching skills while developing as a blocker.
On the 247Sports composite, Skinner is the No. 1 tight end in the country and the No. 74 overall player. Attending IMG Academy, he ranks as the No. 10 player from the state of Florida.
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