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Dragons loaded for a playoff run

A recruiting Web site lists three Jefferson players in its top 100.

By EMILY NIPPS, Times Staff Writer
© St. Petersburg Times
published July 30, 2002

TAMPA -- Of the top 100 college recruits in the country, 15 play for Florida high schools. Of the 15 Florida players, three play in Tampa. Those three players all play for the same school.

Jefferson is home to three of the nation's top recruits, according to rivals.com, a recruiting Web site. The independently-operated organization researches and either interviews or watches film of players to put together its annual "Rivals100" list.

Dragons running back Rashaun Grant, wide receiver Andre Caldwell and offensive lineman Donnie Woods were named to the list, grouped by position. Rankings will be released Aug.15.

Coach Mike Simmonds said he welcomes the pressure of being one of the most talent-laden teams in the state.

"The sky is the limit for these guys," Simmonds said. "We've got miles to go before we can sleep. It's up to them to keep getting better, and I relish the chance to play them this season."

However, Simmonds said he is not "putting all the eggs in one basket," and hopes to play his underclassmen as much as he can. His philosophy of developing players early is one he hopes will pay off with his top senior players this season.

Caldwell, Grant and Woods have yet to narrow their college choices, but all three have received offers from Oklahoma -- a rarity, according to a recruiting specialist who spoke with Simmonds.

Jefferson is expected to be among Florida's top Class 4A teams and hopes to make the most of its strong senior lineup in the playoffs. With the preseason buzz, the pressure could make or break the Dragons' road to the playoffs.

"I've been following recruiting rating services pretty closely since I was in the eighth grade, and I can never remember seeing three players from one high school team get rated in the top 100," Woods said.

"Having three players rated in the top 100 might add a little pressure. Everybody has their eye on you. Everybody is expecting you to perform at a high level. Everyone is also out to beat you."

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