2023 4-star CB AJ Harris sets commitment date, narrows list to 7 schools
Four-star cornerback AJ Harris of Phenix City (Ala.) Glenwood School set his commitment date for Jan. 11, 2022.
Harris said that he will choose between Alabama, Clemson, LSU, Notre Dame, North Carolina, Georgia and Ohio State.
“I chose to commit on Jan. 11 because that is my birthday,” Harris said. “Truthfully, I might do it on Dec. 13 if everything feels right earlier.”
Harris, who is the No. 27 player in the On3 class of 2023 rankings, previously announced a top 13 back in July. This time, he cut Utah, Auburn, Virginia Tech, Miami, Texas A&M and USC.
Finalists for AJ Harris have developed strong relationships
When it comes to each finalist, AJ Harris values relationships, development, early impact and other factors.
Harris said going to Alabama would give him an opportunity to play for and with the best.
“The best of the best go to Alabama,” Harris said. “Going to Alabama gives you a great opportunity to get prepared to go to the league and make an impact.”
The relationships with the Clemson staff stand out to Harris.
“Clemson has one of the most genuine coaching staffs that I talk to,” Harris said. “I enjoy talking to their coaches and believe that they can help me become a better person, as well as a football player.”
LSU, Notre Dame, UGA, UNC stand out, too
Having an opportunity to play early at LSU means a lot.
“LSU is DBU,” Harris said. “They are known for playing true freshmen, and they produce the best defensive backs. I believe that I could make an early impact there.”
Picking Notre Dame would allow Harris to be set for life after football.
“Notre Dame has a great education,” Harris said. “It is more than just football for them. I could also see myself making an impact there as a true freshman. I know that if I go to Notre Dame I would be set for life.
Relationships with coaches at North Carolina stand out to Harris.
“I can go be the man as a true freshman at North Carolina,” Harris said. “Coach (Dre) Bly has played in the league and has done everything that I want to do. North Carolina has a great family-like coaching staff.”
Georgia staff has been close with Harris for a long time.
“Playing at Georgia gives me an amazing opportunity for me to play early,” Harris said. “They have a great coaching staff that I have known since the 8th grade.”
Relationship with staff and development at Ohio State is important to Harris.
“I love the relationship that I have with coach (Kerry) Coombs,” Harris said. “He is a great DB coach. Coach (Ryan) Day is amazing as well. When I visited it felt like a great place to be. Ohio State is known for putting out DBs.”
Harris is committed to play in the 2023 Adidas All-American Game in San Antonio, Texas.