It didn't take long for 2013 Patterson (LA) tight end Deondre Skinner to give his pledge to the Arkansas Razorbacks. In fact, Skinner gave his commitment on the spot ($) when offered by assistant coach Steve Caldwell, according to HawgSports.com.
Arkansas Recruiting 2013: Deondre Skinner Commits To Razorbacks
It may take some developmental time in college, but Arkansas landed a tight end with strong upside for the future on Thursday.
Getty Images
The 6-3, 220-pounder is now the second player to become the second 2013 commit after Arkansas lost both pledges following the firing of head coach Bobby Petrino. Following those defections of Alvin (TX) Manvel wide receiver Austin Bennett and Katy (TX) Cinco Ranch running back/safety Jamel James, the Hogs have now added Skinner and fellow Louisiana native Kaleb Blanchard, a running back from Denham Springs.
A consensus three-star prospect, Skinner held offers from Mississippi State, Texas A&M, SMU, Tulane, and Louisiana-Lafayette.
Often split out as a wide receiver for Patterson, Skinner showed off his ability as a deep threat as a sophomore before adding more in-line duties in his junior season. Still effective as a split end with his size and body control, Skinner will eventually be a strong athlete at his position once he adds the necessary mass to hold up as a blocker at the point of attack. As it is, the effort level is there, but he may be better suited to playing a flex tight end position or working split out in the redzone early in his career until he makes those necessary gains in the strength department.
A bit undersized for a true tight end at 6-3, Skinner nonetheless has long arms and finding tight ends is difficult in college football, so he could well provide a better value for the Hogs than his three-star status would suggest.
For more on Hogs football, visit Arkansas blog Arkansas Expats, plus SEC blog Team Speed Kills.
DeonDre Skinner Highlight Film (via Big26Dee)
