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Yahtzee. Big game bass. The Network. Whatever it is, it's working. Three-star athlete Jalen Julius has picked Ole Miss as his college destination on National Signing Day, according to Steven Ryzewski of The West Orange Times.
Julius, a 5'10, 170-pound running back/wide receiver/defensive back/return specialist, is a very talented athlete who can contribute in a number of ways. He wore many hats for West Orange High School as he torched defenses with his 4.5 speed and eye-in-the-back-of-his-head awareness in the open field. After helping lead his team to an 11-1 record during his senior campaign, Julius made a pledge to Florida but eventually recanted his commitment and opened his recruitment back up.
Long believed to be down to Louisville or Notre Dame, Julius shifted toward Ole Miss after making it to Oxford for the big visit weekend. Miami made a late push, but Hugh Freeze and his staff were able to hold onto the dynamic athlete. His versatility means he can plug into multiple positions of need and could get him on the field as early as the 2015 season.
How he fits in
It has been no secret that Ole Miss has struggled in the return game for quite some time. This is where Julius could step in immediately. The kid from Orlando shows an amazing burst once he gets the football in his hands and is fearless in a crowd.
Obviously the first thought when it comes to comparisons is Dexter McCluster -- they have a similar build and are both from Florida. But Julius has a little more flexibility and could make a difference on the other side of the ball as well. With his great quickness, hands and the ability to get downfield when receivers are running deep, he can easily be in the defensive backs meeting room come summer ball. He also possess quick hips to change direction at any moment when in man coverage and we all know how much Dave Wommack likes to play man-to-man.
Another option is a slot receiver role that would be an excellent compliment over the middle to the big target that Evan Engram has become. Julius' elusiveness and open-field awareness will make him a mismatch for opposing linebackers.