Clemson Football Recruiting: Tigers trending up for 4-star defensive back

Dec 3, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers cornerback Cordrea Tankersley (25) intercepted the ball as defensive back Ryan Carter (31) celebrates against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the second half of the ACC Championship college football game at Camping World Stadium. Clemson Tigers defeated the Virginia Tech Hokies 42-35. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 3, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers cornerback Cordrea Tankersley (25) intercepted the ball as defensive back Ryan Carter (31) celebrates against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the second half of the ACC Championship college football game at Camping World Stadium. Clemson Tigers defeated the Virginia Tech Hokies 42-35. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Clemson football program has a chance to sign it’s best recruiting class ever in the 2018 cycle. The Tigers currently have 8 commitments and they are working on getting their 9th from Verone McKinley III.

Related Story: 3 Prospects Clemson Could Land Before the 2017 Season Opener

Clemson recently received two crystal ball predictions for the 5-foot-10, 170 pound defensive back. McKinley has been high on the Tigers for some time and it was recently reported by Go Up State that he may announce his decision by the end of this month.

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In that same interview McKinley told Phil Kornblut that Clemson defensive backs coach, Mike Reed, “sees me coming in being like a Mackensie Alexander, being able to cover well and be a leader as well, bring energy.”

McKinley does compare favorably to Alexander in size and pass coverage ability. Both McKinley and Alexander have good instincts and break on the ball extremely fast. The only difference between the two is surely Alexander’s mouth, he was known for his ability to trash talk opponents.

Should the Tigers land McKinley, they will only strengthen what may already be the best recruiting class in program history. He will also give Clemson yet another impact player on the defensive side of the ball. Paired with the defensive back signees from the 2017 recruiting class, Clemson’s secondary will have gone from depleted to loaded in the blink of an eye.

Next: 3 Reasons Darnell Jefferies will commit to Clemson

Be sure to stay tuned to Rubbing The Rock for more news regarding the Clemson football program and Verone McKinley III.