Welcome to our series chronicling the 2024 USF Recruiting Class! This series will breakdown every single recruit that has signed to become a part of Head Coach Alex Golesh’s first full recruiting class. (Having a full year to put a class together.) Help us welcome TE Jonathan Echols to the Bulls!
TE Jonathan Echols (IMG Academy – Bradenton, FL)
Committed to the Bulls on December 8th, Echols was the only tight end to commit to the 2024 class. Via Rivals.com, Echols received offers from Alabama, Arkansas, Cincinnati, Florida, Florida State and more during his recruitment. Echols was previously committed to the University of Tennessee before flipping to USF in December 2023.
Run the Tape:
Impressive size at the tight end position who has room to add muscle to his frame in a college strength and conditioning program. Moves extremely well for his size who will surprise linebackers and/or defensive backs on routes. Sound pass catcher who locates the ball well and rarely lets the ball hit his chest. Flashes the potential to be a serviceable blocker whether in the run or pass game if given the tools/proper technique to elevate his game in that area.
Mike’s Take:
Call Jonathan the “big fish” in this recruiting class being the Bulls highest rated recruit to sign with the Bulls in the 2024 cycle. Even more impressive is the fact that Echols is the 10th highest USF recruit to sign with the Bulls in its football history according to 247Sports.com. The film speaks for itself in regard to Jonathan’s ceiling at the collegiate level as someone who could develop into a first-team All-AAC selection in a short period of time. If I’m being honest, I don’t think ability is the question with Echols at all. The question that I have is will head coach Alex Golesh begin to feature the tight end position more in the passing game with a talent like Echols being added to the program. Welcome to the Bulls Jonathan!
by Mike Cusimano
Journalist & Recruiting Analyst, SoFloBulls.com | Twitter:Â @micCusiÂ