Two weeks ago, Jeff Jenkins did not realize he was close to making a college commitment.
But on Friday, Jan. 13, the Prairie Ridge junior offensive tackle received a scholarship offer from Iowa. Jenkins made the trip to Iowa City for an unofficial visit this weekend, and on Sunday, he committed to the Hawkeyes.
“I wasn’t even sure I was ever going to get this kind of offer,” the 6-foot-4, 260-pound Jenkins said Monday. “So when it came I had to seriously consider it.”
Jenkins is ranked 14th among the state’s Class of 2018 prospects in 247Sports’ composite list and held offers from Northern Illinois and four other MAC teams. Jenkins said he talked it over with his family and coaches, as well as Shane Evans, an NIU offensive lineman and older brother of Prairie Ridge quarterback Samson Evans.
“We all kind of tried to think where would be a better place for an offensive lineman to play,” Jenkins said. “We couldn’t really think of any.”
More Top Picks Best Gaming Chairs For Back Pain
Jenkins arrived in Iowa City on Saturday night and on Sunday toured the team’s facilities and met with coach Kirk Ferentz and offensive line coach Brian Ferentz, Kirk’s son.
“After meeting them, I knew that’s who I wanted to play for,” Jenkins said. “It’s the most stable coaching staff you’re going to get. Coach Ferentz isn’t going anywhere.”
Two recent McHenry County stars have used Iowa as a springboard to successful NFL careers. Marian Central’s Bryan Bulaga just finished his sixth year as the Packers’ left tackle, and C.J. Fiedorowicz of Johnsburg had a breakout year in his third season with the Texans.
“That wasn’t a deciding factor,” Jenkins said, “but it is pretty cool.”
Jenkins’ junior year has seen him lead Prairie Ridge to an undefeated season and Class 6A state championship, receive first-team All-State honors from the Tribune and now commit to a Big Ten team known for developing offensive linemen.
“I don’t think I saw all this coming back in August,” Jenkins said. “That being said, we have big plans for next year too. We’re going to all work as hard as we can to get better as a team and see where that takes us.”
Twitter @Larkin_Will