Top 10 Highest Rated Recruits Of All Time Revealed

In the world of sports, particularly in college football, recruiting top talent is a crucial aspect of building a successful program. Over the years, numerous exceptional recruits have made their way into the spotlight, with some going on to achieve greatness in their respective sports. But who are the highest rated recruits of all time? Let's take a journey through the top 10 highest rated recruits in history, exploring their impressive credentials and what made them stand out from the rest.

The Importance of Recruiting

Recruiting is a vital component of college sports, allowing coaches to identify and secure top talent to bolster their teams. Recruiting rankings, provided by organizations like Rivals, ESPN, and 247Sports, help coaches and fans alike gauge a recruit's potential. These rankings take into account various factors, such as a player's skills, performance, and overall athleticism. When a top recruit commits to a program, it can significantly impact the team's chances of success.

The Criteria for Selection

To compile this list, we've considered a range of factors, including:

Recruiting rankings: We've consulted various recruiting websites, such as Rivals, ESPN, and 247Sports, to determine each player's overall ranking. High school accolades: Awards, such as All-American and Player of the Year, were taken into account. College performance: Success at the collegiate level, including All-Conference and All-American selections, was also considered. Professional career: NFL draft position and professional accolades were factored into the evaluation.

With these criteria in mind, let's dive into the top 10 highest rated recruits of all time.

Ranking the Top 10 Highest Rated Recruits

Da'Quan Bowers (2008)

Bowers, a defensive end from Bamberg, South Carolina, was one of the most highly touted recruits of 2008. Ranked as the number one overall recruit by ESPN, Bowers chose Clemson over offers from several other top programs. He had a standout college career, earning All-American honors and finishing as a finalist for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy. Bowers was drafted 2nd overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2011 NFL Draft.

Tim Tebow (2006)

A highly decorated quarterback from Nease High School in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, Tebow was a five-star recruit and the number one overall prospect according to ESPN. Tebow chose Florida over offers from Alabama, Georgia, and Michigan, among others. During his time in Gainesville, Tebow won two national championships, was a two-time SEC Player of the Year, and won the Heisman Trophy in 2007. Tebow was drafted 25th overall by the Denver Broncos in the 2010 NFL Draft.

Jadeveon Clowney (2011)

Regarded by many as one of the greatest high school football players of all time, Clowney was a dominant force on the defensive line. Ranked as the number one overall recruit by ESPN, Clowney chose South Carolina over offers from Alabama, Clemson, and Georgia, among others. Clowney's college career was marked by numerous accolades, including SEC Defensive Player of the Year and All-American honors. He was drafted 1st overall by the Houston Texans in the 2014 NFL Draft.

Jimmy Clausen (2007)

Clausen, a quarterback from Oaks Christian High School in Westlake Village, California, was one of the most highly touted recruits of 2007. Ranked as the number one overall recruit by Rivals, Clausen chose Notre Dame over offers from USC, UCLA, and Stanford, among others. Clausen had a successful college career, earning All-American honors and setting numerous school records. He was drafted 48th overall by the Carolina Panthers in the 2010 NFL Draft.

Robert Nkemdiche (2013)

A dominant defensive end from Grayson High School in Loganville, Georgia, Nkemdiche was one of the most highly sought-after recruits of 2013. Ranked as the number one overall recruit by 247Sports, Nkemdiche chose Ole Miss over offers from Alabama, Georgia, and LSU, among others. Nkemdiche's college career was marked by numerous accolades, including SEC Defensive Player of the Year and All-American honors. He was drafted 29th overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Matt Barkley (2009)

Barkley, a quarterback from Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California, was one of the most highly touted recruits of 2009. Ranked as the number one overall recruit by Rivals, Barkley chose USC over offers from UCLA, Stanford, and Tennessee, among others. Barkley had a successful college career, earning All-Pac-12 honors and setting numerous school records. He was drafted 98th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2013 NFL Draft.

Vince Young (2002)

Young, a quarterback from Houston High School in Houston, Texas, was one of the most highly touted recruits of 2002. Ranked as the number one overall recruit by Rivals, Young chose Texas over offers from USC, Oklahoma, and LSU, among others. Young's college career was marked by numerous accolades, including Big 12 Player of the Year and All-American honors. He was drafted 3rd overall by the Tennessee Titans in the 2006 NFL Draft.

Terrelle Pryor (2008)

Pryor, a quarterback from Jeannette High School in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, was one of the most highly sought-after recruits of 2008. Ranked as the number one overall recruit by 247Sports, Pryor chose Ohio State over offers from Michigan, Penn State, and Oregon, among others. Pryor's college career was marked by numerous accolades, including Big Ten Player of the Year and All-American honors. He was drafted 18th overall by the Oakland Raiders in the 2011 NFL Draft.

Ernie Sims (2003)

Sims, a linebacker from Tallahassee North Florida Christian High School in Tallahassee, Florida, was one of the most highly touted recruits of 2003. Ranked as the number one overall recruit by ESPN, Sims chose Florida State over offers from Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee, among others. Sims had a successful college career, earning All-American honors and setting numerous school records. He was drafted 9th overall by the Detroit Lions in the 2006 NFL Draft.

John Elway (1979)

Elway, a quarterback from Granada Hills Charter High School in Granada Hills, California, was one of the most highly touted recruits of 1979. Ranked as the number one overall recruit by Parade Magazine, Elway chose Stanford over offers from USC, UCLA, and Cal, among others. Elway's college career was marked by numerous accolades, including Pac-10 Player of the Year and All-American honors. He was drafted 1st overall by the Baltimore Colts in the 1983 NFL Draft.

Common Traits Among the Top Recruits

When analyzing the top 10 highest rated recruits of all time, several common traits emerge:

Exceptional athleticism: Each of these recruits possessed elite physical abilities, including speed, strength, and agility. Dominant high school careers: These recruits were often the best players on their teams, earning numerous accolades and awards. Strong work ethic: To achieve greatness, these recruits demonstrated a strong commitment to training and self-improvement. Ability to perform under pressure: Many of these recruits excelled in high-pressure situations, such as state championships or national televised games. Natural leadership abilities: Several of these recruits demonstrated leadership qualities, such as captaining their teams or mentoring younger players.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the top 10 highest rated recruits of all time share several common traits, including exceptional athleticism, dominant high school careers, strong work ethic, ability to perform under pressure, and natural leadership abilities. These recruits went on to achieve greatness in their respective sports, with many becoming household names. As we reflect on these remarkable athletes, it's essential to remember that recruiting is just the beginning. Hard work, dedication, and perseverance are essential for achieving success at the highest levels.

We invite you to share your thoughts on the top 10 highest rated recruits of all time. Who do you think deserves a spot on this list? Do you have a favorite recruit who went on to achieve greatness? Share your comments below and join the conversation!

Also, be sure to follow us for more exciting content, including in-depth analysis, recruiting updates, and expert opinions on the world of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a top recruit stand out?

A top recruit typically possesses exceptional athleticism, a dominant high school career, a strong work ethic, ability to perform under pressure, and natural leadership abilities.

How do recruiting rankings work?

Recruiting rankings are provided by organizations like Rivals, ESPN, and 247Sports. These rankings take into account various factors, such as a player's skills, performance, and overall athleticism.

Can a top recruit still fail to achieve success in college or the pros?

Yes, even top recruits can struggle to achieve success in college or the pros. Factors like team dynamics, coaching, and personal development can impact a player's ability to succeed.