Knighton is the highlight as 11 Deerfield Beach football players sign with FBS schools
Senior running back Jaylan Knighton highlighted a big day for the Deerfield Beach High football program when he officially signed with the University of Miami on Wednesday.
Knighton was one of 11 players, including wide receiver Deajaun McDougle (Maryland), quarterback Michael Pratt (Tulane) and wide receiver/defensive back Bryce Gowdy (Georgia Tech) who signed with Football Bowl Subdivision schools on early signing day.
For Knighton it was a long road in the recruiting process as he first committed to Oklahoma as a junior, then Florida State before coach Willie Taggart was fired in November. Knighton decommitted from the Seminoles before announcing his commitment to Miami via twitter.
“This was really difficult, as I was committed to other places, which turned out not to be the right place for me,” said Knighton. “UM never stopped recruiting me when I was committed to other places. Felt I had a great bond with the coaches, players and I love the University of Miami.”
The 5-10, 180-pound back, finished his career at Deerfield Beach as the school’s all-time rushing leader and second in Broward County history with 5,164 yards. He also played big part in leading the Bucks to three Class 8A state semifinals.
“I want to give thanks to my Dad, who worked with me every single day for opportunities like this,” Knighton said. “He taught me everything about the game of football. He put me in position for this opportunity.
“I love Deerfield Beach High School since coming here as a freshman. I plan to work hard at UM and be able to compete once I get there.”
Pratt played a significant role for the Bucks after his transfer from Boca Raton High. He made his first start for the school in the season’s third game against Pompano Beach Ely. He finished the season 9-2 as the starting quarterback while helping lead the team the Class 8A state semifinals against eventual state champ Miami Columbus.
“Today was super exciting for me,” Pratt said. “It was an awesome journey of high school football, and I am ready for the next four years. I’m excited that I have ability to go to Tulane early.”
McDougle, who became the Bucks’ all-time leader in receiving yardage with more than 2,000 yards, said it was a lot of hard work to reach this point.
“This was a long process,” said McDougle. “I know I’m capable of playing at the next level, and I’ll see what is next for me.”
Other Deerfield Beach signees on Wednesday were wide receiver/safety Xavier Restrepo (Miami), safety Christopher Townsel (South Florida), defensive tackle Kervins Choute (Central Florida), wide receiver Aydin Henningham (Pittsburgh), cornerback Anthony Prospere (Tennessee Martin), tackle Woody Jean (Arizona) and offensive tackle Bryce McNair (Ohio).