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Thought to be a heavy Miami lean, 4-star LB De'Andre Wilder (Carol City, FL) released his top 8 list on Wednesday evening. And, to the shock of no one, Miami was included in the list.
I know I said seven but it's a couple more I added. You can add #LSU to this group pic.twitter.com/5mH38EkukW
— DeAndre Wilder (@Eyecandy_WILDer) June 1, 2016
A lean 6'2" 197lbs, Wilder is a dynamic player at the OLB/DE position. At Miami's return to the 4-3 defense, he would be valuable as an OLB and situational pass rusher. Wilder has the frame to add a bit of weight up to the 215-220lb range while maintaining his athleticism. That will play well anywhere in America.
Already 19 years old, Wilder has indicated his intent to be an early enrollee in college. There's an outside chance that Wilder will age out of eligibility (19 years 9 months is the limit) depending on how far Carol City makes it into the Class 8A playoffs. Even if that were to be the case, Wilder would surely impact a number of games over the course of this season with his dynamic athleticism and skill.
After a junior season that ended with 64 tackles and 14 sacks, Wilder has become one of the most coveted players at his position in the country. Alongside Miami, the presumed leader at this time, Wilder named Colorado, Cal, Michigan, West Virginia, Michigan State, Auburn, Louisville, Notre Dame, and LSU in his top group. Those are some heavyweights for the most part.
It makes sense to presume that Wilder will make a decision before his senior year or during the course of his senior season. With the intent to enroll early looming, he likely won't want to wait too much longer before deciding.
Wilder is the #1 target for Miami at the LB position, and would love to add him to the 2017 recruiting class. For visual evidence for why, you can see the HUDL highlights below.
More when it's available.