With pre-season camps getting into full swing, football is finally around the corner. However, recruiting never stops and Kent State has picked up yet another verbal commitment. Their latest commit comes from the state of Michigan, specifically local powerhouse Martin Luther King high school located in Detroit.
Under-the-radar class of 2017 linebacker Cepeda Phillips announced his decision on his Twitter page on Monday evening.
Blessed to say that I'm committed to Kent State University!!!!!!⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️ pic.twitter.com/JQ0SL6dNml
— Cepeda Phillips (@Cepeda_P_10) August 9, 2016
Phillips’ only reported offer came from coach Haynes and his staff, however they offered him rather early in the process. It is clear the coaching staff felt comfortable with his abilities and is confident he is a nice fit within their program.
Shortly after his commitment, Phillips caught up with Hustle Belt to explain his decision:
‘I chose Kent State because the first day I arrived at Kent State for a unofficial visit coach Needham and the rest of the Kent state family treated me like family and as if I was needed. I loved the enthusiasm from the players in the weight room and the chemistry/ bond the players showed for one another. I studied the team as a whole and felt I could make an impact. This is why Kent State⚡️⚡️⚡️’
As a junior, Phillips was a key part of the Martin Luther King state title run. In the championship game, he accounted for 14 total tackles, including nine solo stops, to help the Crusaders defeat Lowell High School, 40-38.
He is currently ranked a 2-star recruit by both 247Sports and Scout. Per the 247Sports Composite, the 6’0, 210-pound Phillips is considered the 174th linebacker, and the 2,482nd overall prospect in the class of 2017.