There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding which school Mesquite Poteet linebacker Malik Jefferson will decide to attend when he makes his official announcement on December 19. However, Jefferson already knows which school's hat will be on his head that day.
I had a chance to speak with Michael Jefferson, his father, on Friday, and the apple does not fall far from the tree when it comes to intelligence and charisma in that family. Even though the state's top linebacker is visiting UCLA this weekend, his college decision has been made.
"His mind is pretty much made up," Michael Jefferson said. "It's all up to him and what he wants to do now."
By now, most recruiting observers know Jefferson's top four choices (in random order) are Texas A&M, Texas, Baylor and UCLA. Jefferson has never mentioned any school as being his favorite, but there is a reason why Texas is in the mix.
Jefferson's family did not want their son to limit his options, but listen to all offers. They wanted him to make an informed decision, not one based on emotions. When they decided to hear what Texas coach Charlie Strong had to offer, they were impressed.
Michael Jefferson said he is a fan of Strong's old school approach. He likes the accountability and discipline Strong demands from his players. As a parent who is about to see his son attend college, the father feels comfortable knowing Strong can look out for his child's best interests.
In addition, both parents have developed good relationships with Strong and defensive coordinator Vance Bedford, who is incredibly engaging, entertaining, yet, respected.
I asked Michael Jefferson what their thoughts are on Texas A&M, especially considering the Aggies do not have a defensive coordinator. He said they were considering the school and what it had to offer academically, not just the football program. The Jefferson's seemingly are comfortable assessing the Aggies right now, and it does not appear a lack of a defensive coordinator is viewed negatively.
However, if you are a Longhorn fan looking for a glimmer of hope, Jefferson did say they were impressed with UT's academic program.
After Malik Jefferson returns from UCLA, he will solidify his decision, but the family is trying not to influence the choice. Jefferson's dad said he informed everyone in their family not to influence his son, and the parents will add their input only if the linebacker is stuck and wants their help.
Texas is definitely in the running, but we probably will not know if Strong pulled off a major victory by obtaining a commitment from Jefferson until December 19.
This post was edited on 12/12 11:18 AM by Suchomel
I had a chance to speak with Michael Jefferson, his father, on Friday, and the apple does not fall far from the tree when it comes to intelligence and charisma in that family. Even though the state's top linebacker is visiting UCLA this weekend, his college decision has been made.
"His mind is pretty much made up," Michael Jefferson said. "It's all up to him and what he wants to do now."
By now, most recruiting observers know Jefferson's top four choices (in random order) are Texas A&M, Texas, Baylor and UCLA. Jefferson has never mentioned any school as being his favorite, but there is a reason why Texas is in the mix.
Jefferson's family did not want their son to limit his options, but listen to all offers. They wanted him to make an informed decision, not one based on emotions. When they decided to hear what Texas coach Charlie Strong had to offer, they were impressed.
Michael Jefferson said he is a fan of Strong's old school approach. He likes the accountability and discipline Strong demands from his players. As a parent who is about to see his son attend college, the father feels comfortable knowing Strong can look out for his child's best interests.
In addition, both parents have developed good relationships with Strong and defensive coordinator Vance Bedford, who is incredibly engaging, entertaining, yet, respected.
I asked Michael Jefferson what their thoughts are on Texas A&M, especially considering the Aggies do not have a defensive coordinator. He said they were considering the school and what it had to offer academically, not just the football program. The Jefferson's seemingly are comfortable assessing the Aggies right now, and it does not appear a lack of a defensive coordinator is viewed negatively.
However, if you are a Longhorn fan looking for a glimmer of hope, Jefferson did say they were impressed with UT's academic program.
After Malik Jefferson returns from UCLA, he will solidify his decision, but the family is trying not to influence the choice. Jefferson's dad said he informed everyone in their family not to influence his son, and the parents will add their input only if the linebacker is stuck and wants their help.
Texas is definitely in the running, but we probably will not know if Strong pulled off a major victory by obtaining a commitment from Jefferson until December 19.
This post was edited on 12/12 11:18 AM by Suchomel
