The past couple of Buckeye recruiting classes have had a majority of East Coast commits, although they do snatch a couple of West Coast prospects as well. For the 2016 class, Ohio State is pushing hard for the Corona, California native, Javon McKinley. McKinley, rated the 13th wide receiver in his class, and the 15th best prospect out of California (Per 247Sports), had a tremendous past junior season with 2062 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns. This was a huge leap from his sophomore season, where he only caught for 517 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns.
His significant past season has earned him scholarships from top-tier programs across the country, including Ohio State who offered McKinley just a few short months ago. With McKinley currently holding 22 offers, it is safe to say he has been through a lot throughout his recruiting process. “The recruiting process has been treating me really well. I am just glad to have the opportunity to being recruited so much. It has had its ups and downs but I’ve enjoyed it.” McKinley said. Out of all the schools showing interest, McKinley narrowed down the ones recruiting him the hardest. “Washington, Washington State, Nebraska, Ohio State, Illinois, Vanderbilt, Tennessee and Miami are recruiting me the hardest right now.”
Before making a list of his favorite schools, McKinley wants to get out and see a couple more programs and has been thinking about his future plans regarding the process. “I am planning to visit Ohio State for an official visit. My other ones are Notre Dame, Oregon, and Tennessee regarding my visits.” McKinley said.
Regarding his offer from Ohio State, McKinley was happy to get an offer from the national champs. “It felt great to get an offer from the national champions. I have been talking to Zach Smith who is a real good guy. I have been talking to him a lot and I am looking forward to getting out to visit the school and meet all the coaches.” McKinley said.
“I think I would work well in that (Ohio State) offense. A lot of coaches tell me that with my size, I am tell enough to be inside. But I am not too tall to play outside, I can play all over the field.”
McKinley saw a significant increase in his statistics from the past two seasons, but still wants to improve. “I am a more bump and run receiver. I would like improve working the defensive back’s hitch on their coverage.”
With a set commitment date at the Army All-American Bowl Game, look for Ohio State to continue recruiting McKinley hard.
You can watch his junior season highlights here.
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