by joesim on Fri Jan 18, 2013 12:32 am
Michael Parker won't let the NCAA recruiting calendar force his decision.
The ESPN 300 prospect said he won't announce any decision or sign with a school on national signing day. He'll visit his two finalists, Miami and Arizona State, in late March, meaning a decision might not come until April or later.
Michael Parker
Athlete
2013
Uncommitted: List
Pos RkStarsGradeHometown
26
83Nokesville, VA
"Yeah, I'm probably going to wait until after then," Parker said, referring to national signing day on Feb. 6. "I just want some time to make sure. It's the biggest decision in my life. I want to make sure it's the right decision."
At least one school, Boston College, pulled itself out of the chase for Parker when he informed coaches there that he was postponing his decision past February. Miami has expressed concern about the delay but said it will work with the four-star athlete. Clearly, the Hurricanes have made Parker feel wanted in Coral Cables.
"They show great love when I go down there," Parker said. "They're really high on your career after college and after football if football doesn't work out."
Waiting until after signing day should give Parker a bit more time to see if Miami will face severe NCAA sanctions. The Canes are involved in allegations that a booster provided extra benefits to athletes.
"The sanctions play a role in my decision making," said Parker, the No. 234 prospect in the country and No. 10 prospect in Virginia. "But they show so much love I can't even look at that. ... The sanctions aren't a huge factor in my decision, but I do think about it."
Parker's other finalist, Arizona State, also has made him feel wanted despite the fact that Tempe, Ariz., is two time zones away.
"They're great," Parker said. "Me and my recruiter, we talk probably every other day. We just keep up with each other. We're building a strong relationship. They're definitely competing with Miami. They play some tough football. That's what I like about them."
Parker also likes the fact that the Sun Devils need immediate help in the defensive backfield, where he is expected to play in college. He said he also likes the idea of helping rebuild the program.
Parker transferred from Nokesville (Va.) Kettle Run and is currently home schooled. He said he will transfer to Warrenton (Va.) Fauquier in a few weeks.