Pratt a Surprise Early Enrollee

One of the least publicized commitments for NC State in the class of 2014 is also one of the better pick-ups.  Safety/linebacker hybrid Germaine Pratt from High Point committed to the Pack somewhat out of the blue over a slew of big-time offers.  Getting to Raleigh a semester early will allow Pratt to compete for early playing time at either position.

Germaine Pratt

Safety/Linebacker

6’3” 200 lbs

High Point, North Carolina

Ranked: Four star by Rivals #221 overall #20 outside linebacker, Three star #90 safety by Scout, Four star #16 safety by 247

Main Competitors: East Carolina, North Carolina, Notre Dame, Tennessee, Virginia, WakeForest

Recruiting Process:
The entire recruiting process was relatively quiet for Pratt, especially for a highly rated prospect. The first known visit that Pratt took to campus under the current coaching staff was in early spring for a Junior Day.  He also took visits to Chapel Hill and Greenville before the summer. Almost out of nowhere, after participating in a one day camp at State on June 6, Pratt pulled the trigger for the Wolfpack. After originally wanting to take his recruitment all the way until Signing Day, Pratt grew weary of the process and knew he wanted to stay close to home. Other than a quickly dispelled rumor about a potential switch to ECU, there were no worries about Pratt’s loyalty. In fact, in a big surprise, the linebacker/safety hybrid was able to graduate early at the last minute and is now on campus. Rumors were swirling during the Shrine Bowl that he was going to try to start in January, and it was still unknown until he arrived on campus the first weekend back at school.

What to Expect:

There is a reason that two of the three major recruiting outlets see Pratt as a four star. His prep career combined great production with a high potential. As of now, the 6’3” 200 pounder will start out at safety. At this point, Pratt would be a bit undersized to play up in the box, but the coaches think that he has the frame to easily add 30 lbs and make the move up in the scheme. For now, safety would present his best chance to see the field early (something I would bet on). With great height and long arms, there will be several spots that he can be used. I also would expect to see him get time on special teams right away.

I would personally like to see Pratt used as an outside linebacker, perhaps even on the strong side if he can bulk up enough. His best attribute may be playing in coverage, which you can clearly see in his film. Pratt meets the ball at its highest point and should be quick enough to run with college tight ends. Wherever he ends up on defense, Pratt will see the field quickly due to his size, pass coverage, and early arrival to campus.

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGEEKAkw1nU&noredirect=1