Relationships won for Mississippi State when it came to the Franklin Street Academy (Tenn.) Joe Crocker, who announced his commitment to the Bulldogs on Monday night.
The four stars chose Mississippi State out of the final three including Michigan State and Wisconsin – all of which he made an official visit in June.
The 6-foot-7, 310-pound prospect was brought in by Mississippi State as a sophomore and has visited Starkville six times since. That familiarity and comfort level was demonstrated during his official visit with Bulldogs employees over the weekend of June 10, which ultimately helped them achieve one of their most coveted goals. in the class of 2023.
Crocker shared his decision with Rivals.com below.
– On why he chose Mississippi State:
“My relationship with the coaching staff and the players there is very strong. I feel wanted by the entire staff and even the players. I connect very well with my hosts, Lucas Taylorand just really feel comfortable being there. It is a need for me. I felt really needed and wanted and decided it was the best place for me. “
– At the time he told the coaching staff:
“First, I called Coach (Mason) Miller. He panicked on the phone. He was with his family and friends and they all started screaming. I met them when I was there. come visit and they always ask how I’m doing” I’m doing. I feel great. Then I called Coach (Eric) Mele, which he suggested to me when I was a sophomore. It was nice to hear his excitement. Then I called Coach (Carson) Cramer and Coach (Mike) Leach. They were all super excited and attentive over the phone. “
– On what stood out during his official visit:
“My time with Coach Miller. I built a really good relationship with him. But in the early stages of recruitment, it was with Coach Mele. Really, it was quality time with everyone. Also, my parents are very comfortable with everyone there, which is a great thing because when you stay there with a staff member for three days, you get a feel for how people really are. Everyone was so genuine the whole time we were there.”
– On what Coach Miller likes about his skills and abilities:
“He likes me on tackles. I can also slide past to defend. But, he said I have some of the best hands he’s seen from a lot of big tackles. He also said that I have some of the best footwork along with my ability to move and bend.He also loves how small I am.Basically he says he hasn’t seen anyone my size. can move and do what I do.”
– About who he will recruit for Bulldogs in the future:
“I’m used to Seth Davis. I’m going to Malik (Malik Ellis) and get to know him better. I have definitely started recruiting. My next goal will be Chris Parson. He was visiting Mississippi State the same weekend I was on an official business trip. I have to have a good talk with him and Coach Leach. I will also be contacting the recipient from Blackman (Tenn.), Justin Brown. “
