HIghland Springs WR/DB Jabari Parker (Video Still: Byron Jones/recruit804)
At the opening of the early signing period, the Hokies land Jabari Parker
by Byron Jones, recruit804
The recruiting pipeline from Highland Springs to Blacksburg has been broken for several years despite the history between the two schools. Former Hokie Standouts such as Victor “Macho” Harris, Waddy Harvey, and James Davis Jr. all hail from Highland Springs. In addition, the Springers staff is littered with former Hokie standouts. Head Coach Loren Johnson and two of his assistants, Derrick Hopkins, and Cris Hill all had stellar careers at Virginia Tech. One would think Fuente and company would be camped outside of 15. South Oak year in and year out. Unfortunately, that has not been the case in recent years.
Differences between the Hokies and Springers appear to be on the mend. On Wednesday, Coach Fuente picked up a huge PWO commitment from Highland Springs Jabari Parker (2021 DB/WR 6-3 200). Parker held additional offers from UVA, Ole Miss, Kentucky, Navy, Citadel, Gardner Webb, Towson, and Georgetown.
“When I talked to Coach Smitty, it felt like home,” stated Parker. He continued, “We did a virtual tour and I felt like I was there on the virtual tour. Their playing style fits me and it’s in-state. I want to start that trend where in-state kids go to in-state schools so I felt that this was in the best interest for me.”
Jabari was recruited to Tech to play in the Hokies secondary. With his solid frame and physical play, Parker could make an immediate impact once he arrives. “They run a 4-2-5 defense so I could line up at nickel, free, or strong safety,” explained Parker.
In addition to Parker, the Hokies picked up another big PWO commitment from IMG Academy’s Will Jones. Jones is a native of Stuarts Draft, VA and was a member of the Cougars state runner-up team in 2019. Additional in-state prospects that made their commitments official on Wednesday include Jaylen Jones (Thomas Jefferson WR 6-1 185) Isi Etute (Frank W. Cox LB 6-3 205), Keli Lawson (Sherando LB 6-4 200), DJ Simms (Christchurch WR 6-3 190) Jayden McDonald (Salem DB 6-4 220), Jorden McDonald (Salem DB 6-4 220) and Jalen Stroman (Patriot DB 6-1 190).
– Byron Jones
