TOLEDO, Ohio – University of Toledo Head Football Coach Jason Candle on Wednesday announced the signing of 21 recruits to National Letters of Intent. In addition, Toledo added Notre Dame transfer Jhonny Williams to its roster, a defensive end who will be eligible for the 2016 season.
“I am very happy with this recruiting class, and very excited about the young men who are coming into our program” said Candle. “We had to replace some really good seniors on the defensive side of the ball, especially on the defensive line and the secondary. I think we . . .
“I am very happy with this recruiting class, and very excited about the young men who are coming into our program” said Candle. “We had to replace some really good seniors on the defensive side of the ball, especially on the defensive line and the secondary. I think we . . .
. . . filled some much-needed depth at those positions. Offensively, we lost some skill guys so we had to do some revamping at tight end and outside receiver.
“We recruit character first, and I feel like all of our signees are great kids. A lot of guys are coming from winning programs, have played in state championship games or won state championships. They understand the culture of winning football.”
This is the first recruiting class for Candle as head coach. He has been on the Rockets’ staff as an assistant since 2009 and the previous four seasons as the offensive coordinator. In 2010, Candle was named one of the top recruiters in the nation by Rivals, the only coach from the MAC to make the list that season. He was named Mid-American Conference recruiter of the Year in both 2011 and 2012 by Scout.com.
Rivals and 247 Sports each rank Toledo’s 2016 recruiting class as No. 3 in the Mid-American Conference. Scout.com ranks the Rockets as fourth in the Mid-American Conference on total points, though its rating of 2.42 points per signee ranks third in the league.
Candle was faced with the challenge of building a recruiting class and a coaching staff at the same time. The Rockets added seven new assistant coaches and a new director of high school relations since Candle took over as head coach on Dec. 2. “Just like any relationship, recruiting is built off of communication, respect and trust,” said Candle. “Our guys did a really good job of maintaining relationships and creating some new ones in a very short amount of time.”
Candle and his staff cast a wide net to snag their recruits. Ten signees come from relatively local areas: five from Ohio, three from Michigan, and two from Pennsylvania. But an impressive seven recruits come from the talent-rich state of Florida, and one each from Alabama Texas, Maryland and Connecticut.
“We’ve hit our local areas and done a good job of signing players within the four-hour radius of Rocket Nation,” said Candle. “But we’ve also reached out to other areas. At the end of the day, you are trying to sign the best players you can sign. We want players who will work hard and understand the daily grind that it takes to reach their full potential as football players and students.”
The following is a brief look at each of the Rockets’ 2016 signees:
2016 Toledo Recruiting Class
Obi Anunike (OH-bee AHN-uh-NEE-kay)
Defensive End, 6-4, 215, Lewis Center, OH-Olentangy
High School Coach: Mark Solis
Anticipated Major: Pre-med
Obi Anunike was a multi-faceted player at Olentangy High School, earning second-team all-conference and honorable mention all-district honors as a senior at wide receiver, catching 65 passes for 850 yards and 11 TDs. He also was named honorable mention all-conference as a junior. Anunike played basketball and ran track in high school. The Rockets project Anunike as a defensive end. Anunike, who is rated as a three-star recruit by Scout.com, Rivals and 247Sports, is the younger brother of Denver Bronco defensive end Kenny Anunike.
Coach Candle: “Obi is a big, explosive athlete. He’s a very skilled player with a great football background. He has great potential to be a very good football player here as his body matures and grows. We’re very excited for what the future holds for Obi.”
Dedarallo Blue (dih-DAR-low)
Safety/Linebacker, 6-0, 195, Seffner, FL-Armwood
High School Coach: Sean Callahan
Anticipated Major: Communication
Dedarallo Blue racked up 90 tackles, 28 tackles for loss and 13 sacks at Armwood High School in Tampa. Blue joins former Armwood teammate Aaron Covington on the Rocket squad. Blue is rated as a three-star recruit by 247Sports, Scout.com and Rivals.
Coach Candle: “Dedarallo comes from a very strong football program that played in the state championship game for the second straight year. We’ve had some good players from Armwood and we think Dedarallo is another one. He’s a tremendous kid with a big upside.”
Justin Clark
Cornerback, 5-11, 165, West Bloomfield, MI-West Bloomfield
High School Coach: Ron Bellamy
Anticipated Major: Psychology or Design
Justin Clark had 50 tackles, two interceptions, 10 pass breakups and two sacks as a senior cornerback at West Bloomfield High School. He earned all-conference, all-county and all-metro honors. As a junior, Clark had 40 tackles, one interception and seven breakups.
Coach Candle: “Justin Clark is a true cover corner, a guy who has the ability to take your best receiver out of the game. He’s going to be a great addition to our defensive backfield.”
Keidren Davis (KEY-drin)
Tight End, 6-5, 215, Grand Rapids, MI-Union
High School Coach: Rick Angstman
Anticipated Major: Undecided
Keidren Davis caught 34 passes for 444 yards and three touchdowns as a senior at Grand Rapids Union High School. He earned first-team all-conference and all-area honors. He made honorable mention on the Grand Rapids Press Dream Team in both his junior and senior seasons.
Coach Candle: “Keidren is a long, athletic receiver. He will add depth for us at tight end. He plays basketball and his skills on the court translate into football. We’re excited about what he brings to the table.”
Luke Doerger (DER-ger)
Offensive Line, 6-3, 300, Cincinnati, OH-La Salle
High School Coach: Jim Hilvert
Anticipated Major: Engineering
Luke Doerger is a four-time, first-team all-conference offensive lineman and a three-star prospect, according to Scout.com. As a senior at La Salle High School in Cincinnati, Doerger earned first-team all-city and second-team All-Tri-State honors, helping lead La Salle to the Division II state championship. He earned second-team all-city, second-team All-Tri-State and second team all-region honors as a junior. The Lancers also won the state title in Doerger’s junior year. As a sophomore, Doerger was a second-team all-city, second-team All-Tri-State selection. As a freshman, he was honorable mention all-city. Doerger, a first-team academic all-state pick and National Merit semifinalist, received invitations to play football at six Ivy League schools and two military academies. He also participated on the track & field team, earning first-team all-league honors in the discus and qualifying for the regionals as a junior. His father, Tom Doerger, played football at Notre Dame and is the offensive line coach at La Salle.
Coach Candle: “Luke is a big lineman who played for a two-time state champion. He understands what it means to play for a winner. He comes from a great family and his dad is a football coach. He’s very serious about his academics, and will provide leadership in our freshman class.”
Zach Ford
Cornerback, 6-3, 180, Cleveland, OH-Cleveland Heights
High School Coach: Mac Stephens
Zach Ford made honorable mention all-state and all-district as a cornerback at Cleveland Heights High School. A two-year letterwinner, Ford had four interceptions and seven pass breakups as a senior.
Coach Candle: “Zach Ford is a long, athletic corner who has the speed to stay with the fast receivers and the size to handle bigger wideouts. He will give us depth at the cornerback position.”
David Hood
Defensive Tackle, Freshman, 6-1, 273, Miami Gardens, FL-Miami Carol City
High School Coach: Aubrey Hill
Anticipated Major: Sports Management
David Hood is a 6-1, 273-pound defensive tackle who earned team MVP and second-team all-state (6A) honors as a senior at Miami Carol City High School. As a junior, Hood racked up 88 tackles and 15 tackles for loss, earning most improved honors for the Chiefs. The Miami Herald ranked him as the No. 35 recruit out of Dade County, the third-highest rated MAC signee from the county behind fellow Rocket signees Desmond Phillips and Keelen Roberts. He joins Roberts, a Carol City teammate, in the Rockets’ 2016 recruiting class.
Coach Candle: “David Hood is a quick and explosive interior defensive lineman. He has all the attributes you are looking for in a defensive tackle. With the loss of some key defensive lineman from last year’s team, David will provide needed depth to our defensive front.”
Calvin Jackson, Jr.
Wide Receiver, Freshman, 5-10, 165, Pompano Beach, FL-Coral Springs Charter
High School Coach: Adam Miller
Anticipated Major: Communication
Calvin Jackson, Jr. was a 4A first-team all-state selection at Coral Springs Charter High School. He caught 51 passes for 897 yards and 16 touchdowns. Scout.com and 247 Sports list him as a three-star prospect.
Coach Candle: “Calvin Jackson is an explosive receiver. He can do a lot of things with the football. He has great quickness and runs excellent routes. He will be a good addition for us at slot receiver.”
Ronnie Jones
Running Back, Freshman, 6-1, 185, Pittsburgh, PA-Central Catholic
High School Coach: Terry Totten
Anticipated Major: Business
Ronnie Jones was a first-team all-conference running back at Pittsburgh Central Catholic as a senior and a semifinalist for “Mr. Football” in the state of Pennsylvania. He rushed for 1,921 yards and scored 29 touchdowns, leading Central Catholic to the AAAA state championship. As a junior, Jones rushed for 431 yards and scored eight times. Scout.com ranks Jones as a three-star recruit.
Coach Candle: “Ronnie Jones is an explosive athlete. He was an integral part of his team’s state championship run. Ronnie has a very high ceiling for what he can achieve.”
Edrick Mathews
Defensive Tackle, Freshman, 6-3, 276, Detroit, MI-Cass Tech
High School Coach: Thomas Wilcher
Anticipated Major: Communication
Defensive lineman Edrick Mathews earned all-state honors from USA Today, the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News as a senior. Rated as a three-start recruit by Scout.com, Mathews racked up 73 tackles, including 34 tackles for loss and 12 sacks. He also had a forced fumble and one pass broken up.
Coach Candle: “Edrick Mathews is an explosive interior lineman. He’s a very disruptive player, a very good run-stopper and has the ability to get after the quarterback. Edrick comes from Detroit Cass Tech, where (head coach) Thomas Wilcher has done a great job producing college football players over the years.”
Nevone McCrimmon (NAY-von)
Running Back, Freshman, 6-0, 225, Baltimore, MD-Mount St. Joseph
High School Coach: Blake Henry
Anticipated Major: Communciation
Nevone McCrimmon is a 6-0, 225-pound running back who twice earned all-state honors and was named all-league three times at Mount St. Joseph’s High School in Baltimore. He rushed for 894 yards and 15 TDs as a senior, 613 yards and 13 scores as a junior and 1400 yards and 15 touchdowns as a sophomore. McCrimmon graduated from high school in 2015 but delayed his full-time enrollment at UT until this semester. He is working out with the team and will participate in spring practice.
Coach Candle: “Nevone is a big, physical running back with good speed. He can take a pounding and get better as the game goes on. He fits the mold in how we use our running backs.”
Neru N’Shaka (nuh-ROO EN-shah-kah)
Wide Receiver, Freshman, 5-11, 180, Hallandale, FL-Hallandale
High School Coach: Dameon Jones
Anticipated Major: Health Science
Neru N’Shaka is rated as a three-star wide receiver by Rivals and 247 Sports. He was ranked the No. 41 player in Broward County, the highest-rated player in the talent-rich county to commit to a Mid-American Conference school. N’Shaka caught 15 passes for 450 yards and 10 touchdowns as a junior and 20 passes for 525 yards and eight scores as a sophomore. He moved to quarterback in his senior season, but was injured early in the year and did not return to action.
Coach Candle: “Neru N’shaka is a big-play wide receiver. He had a very high number of touchdowns per catch in high school; he knows how to put the ball in the end zone. He provides depth and speed to our receiving corps.”
Desmond Phillips
Wide Receiver, Freshman, 5-11, 170, Miami, FL-Jackson
High School Coach: Earl Little
Anticipated Major: Sports Management
Desmond Phillips was a first-team All-Dade County and honorable mention all-state player as a senior at Miami Jackson High School. A quarterback, Phillips threw for 1,550 yards and 16 TDs. He also rushed for 668 yards and eight scores. As a junior, Phillips made first-team All-Dade County and was named his team’s MVP. He threw for 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns while rushing for 520 yards and 10 TDs. He is rated as a three-star recruit by 247 Sports and Scout.com. The Miami Herald ranked him as the No. 20 recruit out of Dade County, the only MAC signee in the Top 20. Phillips is an early enrollee and will participate in spring practice for the Rockets.
Coach Candle: “Desmond Phillips is an electric player. He can score from anywhere on the field. He was a quarterback in high school but he will play wide receiver for us. He is a big-play threat at any time.”
Keelen Roberts
Cornerback, Freshman, 5-11, 170, Miami Gardens, FL-Carol City
High School Coach: Aubrey Hill
Keelen Roberts is a three-star recruit at cornerback, according to 247 Sports and Scout.com. TheMiami Herald ranked him as the No. 31 recruit out of Dade County, the second-highest rated MAC signee from the county behind fellow Rocket signee Desmond Phillips. He joins Carol City teammate David Hood in the Rockets’ 2016 recruiting class.
Coach Candle: “Keelen is an excellent technician at corner. He has good speed and quickness that allows him to match up with any type of receiver.”
Willie Ross, Jr.
Defensive Tackle, Freshman, 6-1, 260, Ravenna, OH-Ravenna
High School Coach: Jim Lunardi
Anticipated Major: Medical field
Willie Ross, Jr. earned second-team All-Ohio and was named his team’s Most Valuable Player as a senior defensive lineman. His totals included 69 tackles, 22 tackles for loss and 10 sacks. He was credited with 12 QB hurries and two forced fumbles. As a fullback, Ross rushed for 611 yards and 11 touchdowns. He made first-team all-conference as a fullback as a junior and honorable mention all-league as a defensive lineman as a sophomore.
Coach Candle: “Willie Ross is a very disruptive player at defensive tackle. He has everything we are looking for in a football player -- great athlete, great character and a serious attitude toward academics. He’s going to come in and do some good things at Toledo.”
Shakif Seymour (SHAH-keef)
Running Back, Freshman, 5-11, 215, Cleveland, OH-Parma Heights Holy Name
High School Coach: Dan Wondolowski
Anticipated Major: Business
Shakif Seymour rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons at Parma Heights Holy Name. He gained 1,065 yards and 16 touchdowns as a senior, 1,688 yards and 24 TDs as a junior and 1,060 yards and 16 scores as a sophomore. He earned first-team all-state and first-team all-conference honors as a junior, and was named his league’s Most Valuable Player. He earned second-team all-conference marks as a sophomore. He was named a three-star recruit by Rivals.
Coach Candle: “Shakif Seymour is a load to bring down and he’s got enough speed to take the ball the distance. He’s a traditional power back but he can score every time he gets the ball in his hands.”
Tuzar Skipper (TOO-zar)
Defensive End, Junior, 6-4, 245, Norwich, CT-Free Academy / Monroe (NY) College
High School Coach: Jamal Davis
Anticipated Major: Interdisciplinary Studies
Tuzar Skipper is a junior college transfer from Monroe College in New Rochelle, NY. He made second-team all-conference as a defensive end in both seasons at Monroe. A native of the Bronx, Skipper played his high school football at Norwich (CT) Free Academy where he played an instrumental role in NFA qualifying for the CIAC Class LL playoffs in his junior and senior seasons, including a berth in the 2012 championship game. The Wildcats went 20-4 those two seasons, winning the league title in 2012. Skipper was also a two-time all-area selection and twice made the Connecticut High School Coaches' Association Class LL all-state team. Skipper enrolled at UT in January and will participate in spring practice for the Rockets.
Coach Candle: “Tuzar Skipper is a rangy defensive end. He brings instant pass rushing ability to our defense. He can really disrupt the offense from the edge and also be a physical run-stopper.”
Nate Swart
Tight End, Freshman, 6-5, 225, Washington, PA-Washington
High School Coach: Mike Bosnic
Anticipated Major: Accounting
Nate Swart was named first-team all-state and first-team all-conference as a senior. He was named to the Elite 11 and South Fabulous 22 by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He caught eight passes for 224 yards, including three touchdown passes. On defense, Swart had 44 tackles, 16 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. As a junior, Swart was first-team all-conference and was named to the Elite 11. He totaled 18 receptions, 358 yards, four TDs, 31 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. He also was an all-conference and all-district basketball player.
Coach Candle: “Nate Swart has very good ball skills. He has the frame to be a very good tight end for us. He’s a big time blocker who can play off the ball and do the things we ask our tight ends to do.”
Jacquez Williams (JAH-quez)
Athlete, Freshman, 6-1, 187, Jacksonville Beach, FL-Sandalwood
High School Coach: Adam Geis
Anticipated Major: Business or Criminal Justice
Jacquez Williams played wide receiver and defensive back for Sandalwood High School in Jacksonville Beach, FL.
Coach Candle: “Jacquez Williams is a long, rangy athlete who excelled on offense and defense in high school. He has good ball skills and can run with the football. He also has a good feel for playing on defense. We’re excited about his future.”
Jordan Williams
Safety, Freshman, 5-10, 180, Pflugerville, TX-Hendrickson
High School Coach: Chip Killian
Anticipated Major: Pre-law
Jordan Williams was a second-team all-state safety as a senior, as well as a first-team all-district and district MVP for Hendrickson High School in Pflugerville, TX. Williams earned first-team all-district honors as a junior and second-team all-district as a sophomore.
Coach Candle: “Jordan Williams is an explosive safety. He’s a worker, a hard, grind-it-out guy who will mix it up with anyone. He’s a great character individual who is serious about football and academics.”
Tre’Shun Wilson (TRAY-shawn)
Linebacker, Freshman, 6-0, 205, Montgomery, AL-Robert E. Lee
High School Coach: Tyrone Rogers
Anticipated Major: Education
Tre’Shun Wilson had 88 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and five sacks as a senior, earning honorable mention all-area. He added three fumble recoveries and returned one interception for a touchdown. As a junior, Wilson had 56 tackles, eight tackles for loss, three sacks, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He also was a catcher and third baseman on the baseball team.
Coach Candle: “Tre’Shun Wilson is an explosive edge player who can run and play in space. He can put pressure on the quarterback and has good coverage skills. He will provide needed depth at linebacker and is a great special teams player.”
Division I Transfer
Jhonny Williams
Defensive End, Sophomore, 6-5, 260, Benton Harbor, MI – Berrien Springs (Notre Dame)
High School Coach: Bill Brogan
Anticipated Major: Marketing
Jhonny Williams transferred to Toledo from Notre Dame in the summer of 2015 and will be eligible to play for the Rockets as a sophomore in 2016. He did not see game action in his freshman season at Notre Dame in 2014. Williams attended Berrien Springs High School in Berrien Springs, MI, where he was named a first-team all-state defensive lineman as a senior by both the Associated Press and the Detroit News. He was also named to Detroit Free Press All-State Dream Team on defense. As a senior, Williams had 68 tackles, 12.5 sacks, 20.5 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, a blocked kick and a blocked punt. He also played tight end, wide receiver and linebacker in high school. Williams was an all-around athlete in high school, earning first-team all-league honors twice in basketball and all-state honors in track & field, reaching 6-4 in the high jump and 53-9 in the shot put.
Coach Candle: “Jhonny is a big, strong, physical defensive end who has big-play ability. He has the weight to be a run-stopping defensive end and be a pass-rusher.”
2016 University of Toledo Football Recruiting Class
Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Cl. Hometown-High School / Transfer or Prep
Anunike, Obi DE 6-4 215 Fr. Lewis Center, OH-Olentangy
Blue, Dedarallo S/LB 6-0 195 Fr. Seffner, FL-Armwood
Clark, Justin CB 5-11 165 Fr. West Bloomfield, MI-West Bloomfield
Davis, Keidren TE 6-5 215 Fr. Grand Rapids, MI-Union
Doerger, Luke OL 6-3 300 Fr. Cincinnati, OH-La Salle
Ford, Zach CB 6-3 180 Fr. Cleveland, OH-Cleveland Heights
Hood, David DT 6-1 273 Fr. Miami Gardens, FL-Carol City
Jackson, Calvin WR 5-10 165 Fr. Pompano Beach, FL-Coral Springs Charter
Jones, Ronnie RB 6-1 185 Fr. Pittsburgh, PA-Central Catholic
Mathews, Edrick DT 6-3 276 Fr. Detroit, MI-Cass Tech
McCrimmon, Nevone RB 6-0 225 Fr. Baltimore, MD-Mount St. Joseph
N’Shaka, Neru WR 5-11 180 Fr. Hallandale, FL-Hallandale
Phillips, Desmond WR 5-11 170 Fr. Miami, FL-Jackson
Roberts, Keelen CB 5-11 170 Fr. Miami Gardens, FL-Carol City
Ross, Willie DT 6-1 260 Fr. Ravenna, OH-Ravenna
Seymour, Shakif RB 5-11 215 Fr. Cleveland, OH-Parma Heights Holy Name
Skipper, Tuzar DE 6-4 245 Jr. Norwich, CT-Free Academy / Monroe (NY) College
Swart, Nate TE 6-5 225 Fr. Washington, PA-Washington
Williams, Jacquez Athl. 6-1 187 Fr. Jacksonville Beach, FL-Sandalwood
Williams, Jordan S 5-10 180 Fr. Pflugerville, TX-Hendrickson
Wilson, Tre’Shun S 6-0 205 Fr. Montgomery, AL-Robert E. Lee
Division I Transfer
Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Cl. Hometown-High School / Transfer or Prep
Williams, Jhonny DE 6-5 260 So. Benton Harbor, MI-Berrien Springs / Notre Dame
“We recruit character first, and I feel like all of our signees are great kids. A lot of guys are coming from winning programs, have played in state championship games or won state championships. They understand the culture of winning football.”
This is the first recruiting class for Candle as head coach. He has been on the Rockets’ staff as an assistant since 2009 and the previous four seasons as the offensive coordinator. In 2010, Candle was named one of the top recruiters in the nation by Rivals, the only coach from the MAC to make the list that season. He was named Mid-American Conference recruiter of the Year in both 2011 and 2012 by Scout.com.
Rivals and 247 Sports each rank Toledo’s 2016 recruiting class as No. 3 in the Mid-American Conference. Scout.com ranks the Rockets as fourth in the Mid-American Conference on total points, though its rating of 2.42 points per signee ranks third in the league.
Candle was faced with the challenge of building a recruiting class and a coaching staff at the same time. The Rockets added seven new assistant coaches and a new director of high school relations since Candle took over as head coach on Dec. 2. “Just like any relationship, recruiting is built off of communication, respect and trust,” said Candle. “Our guys did a really good job of maintaining relationships and creating some new ones in a very short amount of time.”
Candle and his staff cast a wide net to snag their recruits. Ten signees come from relatively local areas: five from Ohio, three from Michigan, and two from Pennsylvania. But an impressive seven recruits come from the talent-rich state of Florida, and one each from Alabama Texas, Maryland and Connecticut.
“We’ve hit our local areas and done a good job of signing players within the four-hour radius of Rocket Nation,” said Candle. “But we’ve also reached out to other areas. At the end of the day, you are trying to sign the best players you can sign. We want players who will work hard and understand the daily grind that it takes to reach their full potential as football players and students.”
The following is a brief look at each of the Rockets’ 2016 signees:
2016 Toledo Recruiting Class
Obi Anunike (OH-bee AHN-uh-NEE-kay)
Defensive End, 6-4, 215, Lewis Center, OH-Olentangy
High School Coach: Mark Solis
Anticipated Major: Pre-med
Obi Anunike was a multi-faceted player at Olentangy High School, earning second-team all-conference and honorable mention all-district honors as a senior at wide receiver, catching 65 passes for 850 yards and 11 TDs. He also was named honorable mention all-conference as a junior. Anunike played basketball and ran track in high school. The Rockets project Anunike as a defensive end. Anunike, who is rated as a three-star recruit by Scout.com, Rivals and 247Sports, is the younger brother of Denver Bronco defensive end Kenny Anunike.
Coach Candle: “Obi is a big, explosive athlete. He’s a very skilled player with a great football background. He has great potential to be a very good football player here as his body matures and grows. We’re very excited for what the future holds for Obi.”
Dedarallo Blue (dih-DAR-low)
Safety/Linebacker, 6-0, 195, Seffner, FL-Armwood
High School Coach: Sean Callahan
Anticipated Major: Communication
Dedarallo Blue racked up 90 tackles, 28 tackles for loss and 13 sacks at Armwood High School in Tampa. Blue joins former Armwood teammate Aaron Covington on the Rocket squad. Blue is rated as a three-star recruit by 247Sports, Scout.com and Rivals.
Coach Candle: “Dedarallo comes from a very strong football program that played in the state championship game for the second straight year. We’ve had some good players from Armwood and we think Dedarallo is another one. He’s a tremendous kid with a big upside.”
Justin Clark
Cornerback, 5-11, 165, West Bloomfield, MI-West Bloomfield
High School Coach: Ron Bellamy
Anticipated Major: Psychology or Design
Justin Clark had 50 tackles, two interceptions, 10 pass breakups and two sacks as a senior cornerback at West Bloomfield High School. He earned all-conference, all-county and all-metro honors. As a junior, Clark had 40 tackles, one interception and seven breakups.
Coach Candle: “Justin Clark is a true cover corner, a guy who has the ability to take your best receiver out of the game. He’s going to be a great addition to our defensive backfield.”
Keidren Davis (KEY-drin)
Tight End, 6-5, 215, Grand Rapids, MI-Union
High School Coach: Rick Angstman
Anticipated Major: Undecided
Keidren Davis caught 34 passes for 444 yards and three touchdowns as a senior at Grand Rapids Union High School. He earned first-team all-conference and all-area honors. He made honorable mention on the Grand Rapids Press Dream Team in both his junior and senior seasons.
Coach Candle: “Keidren is a long, athletic receiver. He will add depth for us at tight end. He plays basketball and his skills on the court translate into football. We’re excited about what he brings to the table.”
Luke Doerger (DER-ger)
Offensive Line, 6-3, 300, Cincinnati, OH-La Salle
High School Coach: Jim Hilvert
Anticipated Major: Engineering
Luke Doerger is a four-time, first-team all-conference offensive lineman and a three-star prospect, according to Scout.com. As a senior at La Salle High School in Cincinnati, Doerger earned first-team all-city and second-team All-Tri-State honors, helping lead La Salle to the Division II state championship. He earned second-team all-city, second-team All-Tri-State and second team all-region honors as a junior. The Lancers also won the state title in Doerger’s junior year. As a sophomore, Doerger was a second-team all-city, second-team All-Tri-State selection. As a freshman, he was honorable mention all-city. Doerger, a first-team academic all-state pick and National Merit semifinalist, received invitations to play football at six Ivy League schools and two military academies. He also participated on the track & field team, earning first-team all-league honors in the discus and qualifying for the regionals as a junior. His father, Tom Doerger, played football at Notre Dame and is the offensive line coach at La Salle.
Coach Candle: “Luke is a big lineman who played for a two-time state champion. He understands what it means to play for a winner. He comes from a great family and his dad is a football coach. He’s very serious about his academics, and will provide leadership in our freshman class.”
Zach Ford
Cornerback, 6-3, 180, Cleveland, OH-Cleveland Heights
High School Coach: Mac Stephens
Zach Ford made honorable mention all-state and all-district as a cornerback at Cleveland Heights High School. A two-year letterwinner, Ford had four interceptions and seven pass breakups as a senior.
Coach Candle: “Zach Ford is a long, athletic corner who has the speed to stay with the fast receivers and the size to handle bigger wideouts. He will give us depth at the cornerback position.”
David Hood
Defensive Tackle, Freshman, 6-1, 273, Miami Gardens, FL-Miami Carol City
High School Coach: Aubrey Hill
Anticipated Major: Sports Management
David Hood is a 6-1, 273-pound defensive tackle who earned team MVP and second-team all-state (6A) honors as a senior at Miami Carol City High School. As a junior, Hood racked up 88 tackles and 15 tackles for loss, earning most improved honors for the Chiefs. The Miami Herald ranked him as the No. 35 recruit out of Dade County, the third-highest rated MAC signee from the county behind fellow Rocket signees Desmond Phillips and Keelen Roberts. He joins Roberts, a Carol City teammate, in the Rockets’ 2016 recruiting class.
Coach Candle: “David Hood is a quick and explosive interior defensive lineman. He has all the attributes you are looking for in a defensive tackle. With the loss of some key defensive lineman from last year’s team, David will provide needed depth to our defensive front.”
Calvin Jackson, Jr.
Wide Receiver, Freshman, 5-10, 165, Pompano Beach, FL-Coral Springs Charter
High School Coach: Adam Miller
Anticipated Major: Communication
Calvin Jackson, Jr. was a 4A first-team all-state selection at Coral Springs Charter High School. He caught 51 passes for 897 yards and 16 touchdowns. Scout.com and 247 Sports list him as a three-star prospect.
Coach Candle: “Calvin Jackson is an explosive receiver. He can do a lot of things with the football. He has great quickness and runs excellent routes. He will be a good addition for us at slot receiver.”
Ronnie Jones
Running Back, Freshman, 6-1, 185, Pittsburgh, PA-Central Catholic
High School Coach: Terry Totten
Anticipated Major: Business
Ronnie Jones was a first-team all-conference running back at Pittsburgh Central Catholic as a senior and a semifinalist for “Mr. Football” in the state of Pennsylvania. He rushed for 1,921 yards and scored 29 touchdowns, leading Central Catholic to the AAAA state championship. As a junior, Jones rushed for 431 yards and scored eight times. Scout.com ranks Jones as a three-star recruit.
Coach Candle: “Ronnie Jones is an explosive athlete. He was an integral part of his team’s state championship run. Ronnie has a very high ceiling for what he can achieve.”
Edrick Mathews
Defensive Tackle, Freshman, 6-3, 276, Detroit, MI-Cass Tech
High School Coach: Thomas Wilcher
Anticipated Major: Communication
Defensive lineman Edrick Mathews earned all-state honors from USA Today, the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News as a senior. Rated as a three-start recruit by Scout.com, Mathews racked up 73 tackles, including 34 tackles for loss and 12 sacks. He also had a forced fumble and one pass broken up.
Coach Candle: “Edrick Mathews is an explosive interior lineman. He’s a very disruptive player, a very good run-stopper and has the ability to get after the quarterback. Edrick comes from Detroit Cass Tech, where (head coach) Thomas Wilcher has done a great job producing college football players over the years.”
Nevone McCrimmon (NAY-von)
Running Back, Freshman, 6-0, 225, Baltimore, MD-Mount St. Joseph
High School Coach: Blake Henry
Anticipated Major: Communciation
Nevone McCrimmon is a 6-0, 225-pound running back who twice earned all-state honors and was named all-league three times at Mount St. Joseph’s High School in Baltimore. He rushed for 894 yards and 15 TDs as a senior, 613 yards and 13 scores as a junior and 1400 yards and 15 touchdowns as a sophomore. McCrimmon graduated from high school in 2015 but delayed his full-time enrollment at UT until this semester. He is working out with the team and will participate in spring practice.
Coach Candle: “Nevone is a big, physical running back with good speed. He can take a pounding and get better as the game goes on. He fits the mold in how we use our running backs.”
Neru N’Shaka (nuh-ROO EN-shah-kah)
Wide Receiver, Freshman, 5-11, 180, Hallandale, FL-Hallandale
High School Coach: Dameon Jones
Anticipated Major: Health Science
Neru N’Shaka is rated as a three-star wide receiver by Rivals and 247 Sports. He was ranked the No. 41 player in Broward County, the highest-rated player in the talent-rich county to commit to a Mid-American Conference school. N’Shaka caught 15 passes for 450 yards and 10 touchdowns as a junior and 20 passes for 525 yards and eight scores as a sophomore. He moved to quarterback in his senior season, but was injured early in the year and did not return to action.
Coach Candle: “Neru N’shaka is a big-play wide receiver. He had a very high number of touchdowns per catch in high school; he knows how to put the ball in the end zone. He provides depth and speed to our receiving corps.”
Desmond Phillips
Wide Receiver, Freshman, 5-11, 170, Miami, FL-Jackson
High School Coach: Earl Little
Anticipated Major: Sports Management
Desmond Phillips was a first-team All-Dade County and honorable mention all-state player as a senior at Miami Jackson High School. A quarterback, Phillips threw for 1,550 yards and 16 TDs. He also rushed for 668 yards and eight scores. As a junior, Phillips made first-team All-Dade County and was named his team’s MVP. He threw for 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns while rushing for 520 yards and 10 TDs. He is rated as a three-star recruit by 247 Sports and Scout.com. The Miami Herald ranked him as the No. 20 recruit out of Dade County, the only MAC signee in the Top 20. Phillips is an early enrollee and will participate in spring practice for the Rockets.
Coach Candle: “Desmond Phillips is an electric player. He can score from anywhere on the field. He was a quarterback in high school but he will play wide receiver for us. He is a big-play threat at any time.”
Keelen Roberts
Cornerback, Freshman, 5-11, 170, Miami Gardens, FL-Carol City
High School Coach: Aubrey Hill
Keelen Roberts is a three-star recruit at cornerback, according to 247 Sports and Scout.com. TheMiami Herald ranked him as the No. 31 recruit out of Dade County, the second-highest rated MAC signee from the county behind fellow Rocket signee Desmond Phillips. He joins Carol City teammate David Hood in the Rockets’ 2016 recruiting class.
Coach Candle: “Keelen is an excellent technician at corner. He has good speed and quickness that allows him to match up with any type of receiver.”
Willie Ross, Jr.
Defensive Tackle, Freshman, 6-1, 260, Ravenna, OH-Ravenna
High School Coach: Jim Lunardi
Anticipated Major: Medical field
Willie Ross, Jr. earned second-team All-Ohio and was named his team’s Most Valuable Player as a senior defensive lineman. His totals included 69 tackles, 22 tackles for loss and 10 sacks. He was credited with 12 QB hurries and two forced fumbles. As a fullback, Ross rushed for 611 yards and 11 touchdowns. He made first-team all-conference as a fullback as a junior and honorable mention all-league as a defensive lineman as a sophomore.
Coach Candle: “Willie Ross is a very disruptive player at defensive tackle. He has everything we are looking for in a football player -- great athlete, great character and a serious attitude toward academics. He’s going to come in and do some good things at Toledo.”
Shakif Seymour (SHAH-keef)
Running Back, Freshman, 5-11, 215, Cleveland, OH-Parma Heights Holy Name
High School Coach: Dan Wondolowski
Anticipated Major: Business
Shakif Seymour rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons at Parma Heights Holy Name. He gained 1,065 yards and 16 touchdowns as a senior, 1,688 yards and 24 TDs as a junior and 1,060 yards and 16 scores as a sophomore. He earned first-team all-state and first-team all-conference honors as a junior, and was named his league’s Most Valuable Player. He earned second-team all-conference marks as a sophomore. He was named a three-star recruit by Rivals.
Coach Candle: “Shakif Seymour is a load to bring down and he’s got enough speed to take the ball the distance. He’s a traditional power back but he can score every time he gets the ball in his hands.”
Tuzar Skipper (TOO-zar)
Defensive End, Junior, 6-4, 245, Norwich, CT-Free Academy / Monroe (NY) College
High School Coach: Jamal Davis
Anticipated Major: Interdisciplinary Studies
Tuzar Skipper is a junior college transfer from Monroe College in New Rochelle, NY. He made second-team all-conference as a defensive end in both seasons at Monroe. A native of the Bronx, Skipper played his high school football at Norwich (CT) Free Academy where he played an instrumental role in NFA qualifying for the CIAC Class LL playoffs in his junior and senior seasons, including a berth in the 2012 championship game. The Wildcats went 20-4 those two seasons, winning the league title in 2012. Skipper was also a two-time all-area selection and twice made the Connecticut High School Coaches' Association Class LL all-state team. Skipper enrolled at UT in January and will participate in spring practice for the Rockets.
Coach Candle: “Tuzar Skipper is a rangy defensive end. He brings instant pass rushing ability to our defense. He can really disrupt the offense from the edge and also be a physical run-stopper.”
Nate Swart
Tight End, Freshman, 6-5, 225, Washington, PA-Washington
High School Coach: Mike Bosnic
Anticipated Major: Accounting
Nate Swart was named first-team all-state and first-team all-conference as a senior. He was named to the Elite 11 and South Fabulous 22 by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He caught eight passes for 224 yards, including three touchdown passes. On defense, Swart had 44 tackles, 16 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. As a junior, Swart was first-team all-conference and was named to the Elite 11. He totaled 18 receptions, 358 yards, four TDs, 31 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. He also was an all-conference and all-district basketball player.
Coach Candle: “Nate Swart has very good ball skills. He has the frame to be a very good tight end for us. He’s a big time blocker who can play off the ball and do the things we ask our tight ends to do.”
Jacquez Williams (JAH-quez)
Athlete, Freshman, 6-1, 187, Jacksonville Beach, FL-Sandalwood
High School Coach: Adam Geis
Anticipated Major: Business or Criminal Justice
Jacquez Williams played wide receiver and defensive back for Sandalwood High School in Jacksonville Beach, FL.
Coach Candle: “Jacquez Williams is a long, rangy athlete who excelled on offense and defense in high school. He has good ball skills and can run with the football. He also has a good feel for playing on defense. We’re excited about his future.”
Jordan Williams
Safety, Freshman, 5-10, 180, Pflugerville, TX-Hendrickson
High School Coach: Chip Killian
Anticipated Major: Pre-law
Jordan Williams was a second-team all-state safety as a senior, as well as a first-team all-district and district MVP for Hendrickson High School in Pflugerville, TX. Williams earned first-team all-district honors as a junior and second-team all-district as a sophomore.
Coach Candle: “Jordan Williams is an explosive safety. He’s a worker, a hard, grind-it-out guy who will mix it up with anyone. He’s a great character individual who is serious about football and academics.”
Tre’Shun Wilson (TRAY-shawn)
Linebacker, Freshman, 6-0, 205, Montgomery, AL-Robert E. Lee
High School Coach: Tyrone Rogers
Anticipated Major: Education
Tre’Shun Wilson had 88 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and five sacks as a senior, earning honorable mention all-area. He added three fumble recoveries and returned one interception for a touchdown. As a junior, Wilson had 56 tackles, eight tackles for loss, three sacks, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He also was a catcher and third baseman on the baseball team.
Coach Candle: “Tre’Shun Wilson is an explosive edge player who can run and play in space. He can put pressure on the quarterback and has good coverage skills. He will provide needed depth at linebacker and is a great special teams player.”
Division I Transfer
Jhonny Williams
Defensive End, Sophomore, 6-5, 260, Benton Harbor, MI – Berrien Springs (Notre Dame)
High School Coach: Bill Brogan
Anticipated Major: Marketing
Jhonny Williams transferred to Toledo from Notre Dame in the summer of 2015 and will be eligible to play for the Rockets as a sophomore in 2016. He did not see game action in his freshman season at Notre Dame in 2014. Williams attended Berrien Springs High School in Berrien Springs, MI, where he was named a first-team all-state defensive lineman as a senior by both the Associated Press and the Detroit News. He was also named to Detroit Free Press All-State Dream Team on defense. As a senior, Williams had 68 tackles, 12.5 sacks, 20.5 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, a blocked kick and a blocked punt. He also played tight end, wide receiver and linebacker in high school. Williams was an all-around athlete in high school, earning first-team all-league honors twice in basketball and all-state honors in track & field, reaching 6-4 in the high jump and 53-9 in the shot put.
Coach Candle: “Jhonny is a big, strong, physical defensive end who has big-play ability. He has the weight to be a run-stopping defensive end and be a pass-rusher.”
2016 University of Toledo Football Recruiting Class
Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Cl. Hometown-High School / Transfer or Prep
Anunike, Obi DE 6-4 215 Fr. Lewis Center, OH-Olentangy
Blue, Dedarallo S/LB 6-0 195 Fr. Seffner, FL-Armwood
Clark, Justin CB 5-11 165 Fr. West Bloomfield, MI-West Bloomfield
Davis, Keidren TE 6-5 215 Fr. Grand Rapids, MI-Union
Doerger, Luke OL 6-3 300 Fr. Cincinnati, OH-La Salle
Ford, Zach CB 6-3 180 Fr. Cleveland, OH-Cleveland Heights
Hood, David DT 6-1 273 Fr. Miami Gardens, FL-Carol City
Jackson, Calvin WR 5-10 165 Fr. Pompano Beach, FL-Coral Springs Charter
Jones, Ronnie RB 6-1 185 Fr. Pittsburgh, PA-Central Catholic
Mathews, Edrick DT 6-3 276 Fr. Detroit, MI-Cass Tech
McCrimmon, Nevone RB 6-0 225 Fr. Baltimore, MD-Mount St. Joseph
N’Shaka, Neru WR 5-11 180 Fr. Hallandale, FL-Hallandale
Phillips, Desmond WR 5-11 170 Fr. Miami, FL-Jackson
Roberts, Keelen CB 5-11 170 Fr. Miami Gardens, FL-Carol City
Ross, Willie DT 6-1 260 Fr. Ravenna, OH-Ravenna
Seymour, Shakif RB 5-11 215 Fr. Cleveland, OH-Parma Heights Holy Name
Skipper, Tuzar DE 6-4 245 Jr. Norwich, CT-Free Academy / Monroe (NY) College
Swart, Nate TE 6-5 225 Fr. Washington, PA-Washington
Williams, Jacquez Athl. 6-1 187 Fr. Jacksonville Beach, FL-Sandalwood
Williams, Jordan S 5-10 180 Fr. Pflugerville, TX-Hendrickson
Wilson, Tre’Shun S 6-0 205 Fr. Montgomery, AL-Robert E. Lee
Division I Transfer
Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Cl. Hometown-High School / Transfer or Prep
Williams, Jhonny DE 6-5 260 So. Benton Harbor, MI-Berrien Springs / Notre Dame
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