Top OLB target Zayas visits UCF

UCF brought in one of their top defensive targets at the close of December's open recruiting period.

Stephon Zayas, a defensive end and linebacker prospect from Fort Lauderdale's Dillard High School, spent Friday through Sunday morning on campus. He says he enjoyed himself immensely while seeing everything Scott Frost's program has to offer.

"I like how everything at UCF is close together," Zayas said. The stadium and facilities are all within walking distance."

His player host was linebacker Justin McDonald, who also is from Fort Lauderdale. Zayas says he spent time with the whole team, including Nevelle Clarke and Tristan Payton. Saturday's activities concluded with a visit to Bonefish Grill.

During the weekend, the coaches made sure to drive home the point how UCF needs a player like Zayas in their defense. Defensive coordinator Erik Chinander sees the big 6-foot-6, 210-pound athlete as a perfect outside linebacker for their 3-4 system. He's being recruited by linebackers coach Jovan Dewitt.

"All the coaches were saying how big of a target I am, how much they need me," Zayas said.

Pittsburgh and North Carolina are also heavily recruiting Zayas, who has tentative visits scheduled to those schools in January.

As for any potential leaders of a time frame for a decision, Zayas is keeping things close to the vest, saying he will continue discussing it with his family.