The CheckerBoard

Someone will have to fill AJ's shoes when he leaves, perhaps as early as 2014. Maybe it's Bynum, but I really like Corey Vereen (6-2/235/4.6). He's built like a true middle linebacker and he's got elite speed for a LB.

As many of you know, I'm big on star rankings. I think they absolutely do matter and I think they are a good indicator of a player's ability. The system isn't perfect, though, and several diamonds in the rough fall through the cracks every year. I think Vereen is one of those guys. He commited very early (March 2) so there wasn't as much hype surrounding his recruitment as there could have been. Also, he didn't go to a lot of camps as a senior which could have contributed to him being underrated. Sunseri was a terrible DC, just awful. But the man knows a good LB when he sees one, so I trust his evaluation of Vereen.

Don't be fooled by the offer list on his 247 profile. Apparently, it doesn't include all of his offers. He was heavily recruited by Florida, Florida State, Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Louisville, and Clemson (see attached "hidden gem" article). Also worth mentioning is that he was an honor student and is an early enrollee.

Vereen is an humble, smart, and talented kid. He may not have a better career Rueben Foster (the #1 MLB in the country who has commited and decommited to Bama and Auburn) but he has similar measurables, better academics, and if their recruitments are any indicator, a better attitude. Corey Vereen is a true VFL, and I look forward to watching him compete for a spot in the LB rotation this spring.