Three-star defensive tackle Chris Nelson (Lakeland, Fla./Victory Christian) is reopening his recruitment, he told ESPN.com in a text message Friday.
Notre Dame first contacted Nelson on Friday morning, and an offer could be coming.
“ND called today but I’m in school so I missed the phone call,” Nelson said, “but they left a message saying they want me to come to their school so I will be giving them a call today.”
Asked if the Longhorns are the new favorite, Nelson said “I’m going to take my visits first and see what’s best for my family.”
UCF and Notre Dame are in contention for the final visit from Nelson the weekend before signing day. UCF has offered the 6-foot-2, 280-pound lineman.
Size-Strength-Speed
Has just adequate overall size on paper, but looks to possess solid length and room to still pack on more good size for play in the trenches.
Versus the Run
Displays a good initial burst and can be a tough run defender. Demonstrates the ability to fire off the ball low, get under a blocker's pads and uncoil at contact with the ability to shoot his hands, stand them up and jolt them back. Is able to gain leverage, hold his ground and flashes ability to two-gap. Does need to improve upper-body strength though and do a better and more consistent job of extending and disengaging.
Pass Rush Skills
Can explode off the ball and get under blockers' pads and generate some push to press the pocket. Flashes ability to work to the shoulder, but needs to be more active with his weapons and expand his pass rush arsenal a bit more. Needs development as a pass rusher.
Toughness/Motor
Displays adequate tight box change-of-direction.
Bottom Line
It is possible that he could land on offense if not initially, then at some point in his college career and with development could contribute as a productive interior offensive lineman. Nelson shows some flashes, but with some development physically and as a player he looks best suited as a stout run defender.
