DeMarcus Walker Set To Decide Between Alabama, Florida And Clemson

DeMarcus Walker of Jacksonville (Fla.) Sandalwood High School is one of the top defensive end recruits in the country. A consensus four-star recruit, he holds offers from most of the SEC and top programs from around the country. And he came to the Orlando Nike Football Training Camp (NFTC) looking to prove himself and earn an invite to Nike’s “The Opening,” an all-star event held in July at the Nike facilities in Oregon.

“I did pretty good. I went undefeated in one-on-ones, and, you know, walking around with a chip on my shoulder. I wanted to prove myself,” Walker said.

The competition was pretty fierce in the one-on-ones, and Walker took reps at both defensive end and defensive tackle. One prospect in particular impressed Walker. “Laremy Tunsil. I kind of beat everyone but Tunsil -- he gave me good competition,” Walker said.

Walker has already visited Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, Clemson and Miami. But he still has other visits planned. “My goal is to take one to USC and LSU.”

Despite not yet visiting USC and LSU, Walker is still set to decide on May 24 between Alabama, Florida and Clemson. “I’ll take the visits after I decide. It’s just a verbal commitment, I can always change my mind when I make my final decision. I can just get it done,” Walker Said.

In between competing on Sandalwood’s track team and school, Walker said he plans to improve “everything” about his game.

Bud’s Take: Walker didn’t give any hints as to his decision in a month, and all three schools seem to have a shot. He showed excellent power, and measured in at 6’3” and 276 pounds. Walker has the frame to play at close to 300 pounds, and I could definitely see him playing the five-technique end position for either Florida or Alabama, both of which run a version of the 3-4 defense at least part of the time.