I understand recruiting to needs. That's obvious and must be the priority in any class. I just don't want to see a great athlete get away because we may or may not have our allotment at a certain position. No one knows how any of these kids will turn out on this level. Opinions from you gurus:
Is it better to go after as many "athletes" as possible and turn them into where they fit best? I recall that was a big thing under Stallings. Getting that 215-220 athlete that could play safety or linebacker or grow into a DE. We certainly did that with Dansby who came to Auburn as a 205 pound receiver.
Also, how much do you think our staff gets in to being specific about where they project a guy to play? I think with Calloway, it's obvious that stuff goes on in order to get a great recruit. I know these kids see themselves in a certain position and shop themselves around to schools that agree with them and will give them a shot there.
On the flip side of the coin, I recall a local player years ago who wound up at Alabama playing DB. Hershel Bolden played QB at Dothan High and honestly was one of the last really great athletes to come out of this area. I was going to virtually all their home games around here and twice, I saw this kid rush for over 200 yards from the QB position....in one half. The thing was, he NEVER set foot on the field playing defense in any capacity. Yet, when he got to Bama, he was automatically a defensive back. It didn't work out well. He made Neiko Torched look like Lester Hayes.