Coach Brian Kelly received his 18th commitment for the 2012 recruiting class today from S Elijah Shumate (Ramsey, NJ - Don Bosco). Shumate chose the Irish over Rutgers and South Carolina and is listed at 6'1"/185 lbs with a 4.5 40 time.
He joins Nicky Baratti, John Turner and C.J. Prosise as safety commitments for the class. Shumate was a US Army All-American and announced his decision during the game.
Recruiting Service Rankings:
ESPN - 4 Star (#6 NJ, #14 S), 80 Grade
Rivals - 4 Star (#4 NJ, #7 S), #128 Overall (5.8 Grade)
Scout - 4 Star (#5 S), #60 Overall
247Sports - 4 Star (#4 NJ, #2 S), #82 Overall (95 Grade)
MaxPreps - 4.5 Star, #136 Overall
Highlights after the jump.
Highlights:
Elijah Shumate Don Bosco - NJ (via MrGordon550)
Impact:
Immediate Future:
Shumate joins a big haul at the safety position for the 2012 class, but is the most highly regarded prospect of the group. He could challenge for play right away on special teams and potentially break the two deep at strong safety by mid-season and I wouldn't be surprised to see him in specific packages lining in more of a hybrid linebacker role.
Long Term/Career:
Some of the recruiting services contend that he will eventually play OLB at the next level, but I tend to disagree. His frame and skill-set should keep him in the strong safety rotation for the duration of his career in South Bend.
Elijah is a big hitting, physical presence on film. Additionally, he does a great job shedding blockers and beating the ball carrier to the point of attack. To me, he is the next version of Jamoris Slaughter, and could play a very similar role early in his career.
Welcome to Notre Dame Elijah!