Immediate impact: Early enrollees who could contribute in 2017
The practice of recruits enrolling early in college to get a jump start on both school and football has become more prevalent in recent years, with some programs even seeing the bulk of their 2017 signing class already on campus.
But which prospects have the best shot at participating in spring ball and seeing the field early? We take a look at five players who are already on campus and should be pushing for playing time from day one.
MORE: Recruits react to proposed early signing period | West Coast recruiting notes
The five-star running back was in discussion for the No. 1 overall spot in the Rivals rankings, and he will also be in the discussion for the No. 1 spot in the Seminoles' backfield. Former five-star and current Florida State junior Jacques Patrick figures to win the job after serving as Dalvin Cook’s backup over the past two years, but he and Akers have different skillsets and could combine for a lethal one-two punch. Florida State figures to be among the favorites for a spot in the college football playoff, and an early impact from Akers will only help fuel expectations in Tallahassee.
The Buckeyes have seen several players from their secondary head to the NFL over the past few seasons, opening the door for a player like Okudah to come in and see the field early. Some have compared Okudah to former five-star Jalen Ramsey, mainly because of Okudah's ability to play either safety or corner. That versatility should only help him in Columbus, and it wouldn’t be a shock to see him as an opening day starter in the fall with his early enrollment giving him a jumpstart on the competition.
One of the best pure athletes at the wide receiver position in the country, Peoples-Jones enters a situation at Michigan that is tailor-made for early playing time. Several of Michigan’s top receiving threats from last season are gone, and with a stable quarterback situation, the Wolverines figure to throw the ball quite a bit in 2017. With Peoples-Jones' talent and work ethic, it wouldn’t be a shock to see him be a major factor next season.
In the pass-heavy Pac-12, you can never have too many pass rushers, and Phillips is a specialist in that field. Unlike some of the other situations on this list, the Bruins return several of their best defensive linemen. But what makes things different for Phillips is the fact that he doesn’t have to be an every down player right from the start. With his speed and quickness off the edge, he could come in on obvious passing downs and have an immediate impact even if he’s still developing other aspects of his game.
Plenty of things have changed in South Bend over the past few months, especially on the offensive side of the ball. The school’s top two quarterbacks are gone, and there is also a new offensive coordinator in South Bend. All those factors could actually be helpful to Wright, who is coming in with a blank slate. The Irish have two tight ends who have shown flashes in the past, but neither Alize Jones nor Durham Smythe have a stranglehold on the position. With Wright’s ability to help out in the passing game and as a blocker, his contributions could be needed early as the school forms a new offensive identity.
