2023 On100 linebacker Troy Bowles names top schools
Tampa Jesuit linebacker Troy Bowles has already amassed more than 30 offers, but the No. 83 overall player in the 2023 On100 rankings has narrowed his focus to 11 programs.
Virginia Tech, LSU, Florida, Ohio State, Georgia, Rutgers, Michigan, Oregon, Texas A&M, Penn State and Auburn are the schools that have pulled ahead, he told On3 Director of Recruiting Chad Simmons.
“They show a lot of love, and they show that they really want me,” Bowles said. “I don’t want to go anywhere that I’m not really wanted.”
The son of Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive coordinator Todd Bowles, Troy has been a tackling machine in his prep career. As a sophomore last season, he notched 100 total tackles, including nine for loss, as well as three interceptions and two forced fumbles.
His Jesuit High squad finished the season 14-1 and made a run deep into the Florida 5A playoffs. Through five games in 2021, he’s been in on 33 tackles and added an interception and forced fumble.
Troy Bowles has been busy with visits
He took unofficial visits to Rutgers, Florida State and Virginia Tech over the summer, and he also camped at Ohio State, where he later earned an offer. He’ll return to Columbus Oct. 30 for the Buckeyes showdown with Penn State, and he recently tripped to Rutgers, where his brother is a walk-on.
He still hears from a handful of schools who have yet to offer him, and he’s clear that he is still open to other schools entering his recruitment.
As for next steps, Bowles said he plans to weigh out all of his options before he eventually makes a commitment. “I’m just trying to see what the best fit is for me.”
The 6-foot-1, 205-pound Bowles plays primarily at outside linebacker for Tampa Jesuit, and that’s where he projects at the college level with his elite blend of burst, size and speed.