Done Deal: Gators Lands Commitment Of A Five-star wide receiver

Five-star wide receiver Vernon Brown III is set to choose between Ohio State and three Florida schools this month. While the Buckeyes are not the favorites to secure his commitment, Brian Hartline’s influence shouldn’t be underestimated. This year’s recruiting cycle has been somewhat challenging for Hartline. Although Ohio State has three wide receivers committed, the overall class isn’t meeting the high standards Hartline has set in recent years. Quincy Porter, ranked No. 45 nationally by 247Sports’ Composite Rankings, is the top-ranked WR in the class. The next in line is De’zie Jones at No. 289 nationally, and the third is Bodpegn Miller, a three-star in-state prospect ranked No. 591 nationally.

It’s important to note that Hartline remains the best in the country at what he does, but he’s struggled to secure the top-tier talent this season. This could be due to the abundance of young WR talent already in Columbus or a dip in national talent at the position.

Regardless, Hartline and the Buckeyes have a chance to boost their class on July 21 when Vernell Brown III announces his college choice. Brown, a 5-foot-11, 170-pound receiver from Jones High School in Orlando, is ranked No. 25 nationally and is the No. 6 receiver and No. 5 player from Florida.

Brown began his official visits in Columbus at the end of May and then visited Coral Gables, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. Being the first official visit (OV) isn’t always favorable, and it appears Ohio State may struggle to secure his commitment.

Former 247Sports recruiting director Steve Wiltfong had predicted Ohio State in March, but since his move to On3, three predictions favor Florida. Additionally, 247Sports’ national recruiting analyst Tom Loy also predicted UF recently.

On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine gives Florida an 87.8% chance of landing Brown, with Ohio State trailing at 9.2%. Despite the odds, Hartline still has nearly two weeks to potentially sway Brown away from the Gators.