Could Jaron Dukes Be Commit #4?

Jaron Dukes, a 6’5” wide receiver out of Marion Franklin (Columbus, OH), visited Ann Arbor for the first time this past weekend. He, however, has been a lifelong Michigan fan. Dukes is an emerging star out of the Midwest and will probably be one of the top wide receivers out of Ohio for the class of 2013. When Michigan offered him on Signing Day, he was ecstatic. 

“I’m already ready to be in Blue,” he said when he got offered. Even though he’s not ready to commit, you can tell he’s very pumped about his Michigan offer. He has an offer from the University of Toledo, and has been hearing from Ohio State. Surprise, surprise. Dukes said he would consider Ohio State. He says his strengths are being able to focus on the ball, keeping a level-head, being able to read the DB and the secondary, and of course having fun and competing. Seems like the typical high-character player Michigan coaches like to go for. 

Wide receiver is a great position of need for Michigan in 2013. Multiple wide receiver offers have already gone out, but Dukes is one of special interest. Michigan was one of the first schools to offer him, and he has really appreciated that. Not to mention the man is 6’5” and 197 pounds. What’s not to love? If Michigan were to land Dukes, he would probably be one of the tallest wide receivers to ever wear the Maize and Blue. 

As Michigan DE recruit Taco Charlton (@thekidTC33) recently tweeted, "If Michigan gets Jaron Dukes, that would be a great addition to the 2013 class 'cause the kid can play! And you can't teach 6'5"." He makes a really good point. 

Interestingly enough, when Marion Franklin played Trotwood-Madison, it was said that Dukes torched Ohio State defensive back commit Cameron Burrows multiple times to the tune of six catches, 173 yards, and two touchdowns. If that isn’t foretelling of future match-ups against Ohio State, I don’t know what is. 

Dukes said that he loved his Michigan visit. His parents came along so they could experience it too, and he said it was everything he expected and more. 

"It went great! I saw everything...the facilities, academic programs...just everything! It was everything I expected it to be plus more. I thought the town was going to be very small, but it's not that small. I liked it...I liked it a lot!"

Dukes also said that he has a great vibe with the coaches and that he can tell they really care about their players. Although many Michigan fans were on commitment watch this weekend, Dukes has been consistent with his decision to wait to commit. He admits that Michigan is his leader, but he wants to take his time. 


Dukes plans on visiting Cincinnati, West Virginia, and possibly Indiana. 




Photo Credit: Scout