UCF makes push for 2017 JUCO CB

UCF is hoping to make a late addition to their 2017 recruiting class in order to fill a big position of need.

Antonio Howard, a cornerback from Independence (Kan.) Community College and a Miami native, will arrive in Orlando on Friday for the beginning of a weekend official visit.

The Knights recruited the former Miami Lakes star in the Class of 2015 before he opted to commit to West Virginia and later signed with Marshall. Following a redshirt year in Huntington, Howard transferred to Independence where he's been working to graduate this summer in order to play at a four-year school for the 2017 season.

Howard is already quite familiar with UCF having taken an unofficial visit last summer.

"I like the campus and it's a great coaching staff," Howard said. "Coach (Scott) Frost might be the coolest coach in college football. I've been impressed by UCF's academics, how they have the highest graduation rate among public schools... It's a great town and feels like home. It's not too far from home. My parents and friends could come to my games, which would be nice."

Assistant coach Ryan Held visited with him on Wednesday to set up the visit, expressing their need for experience at corner after losing two starters and a backup to graduation. On top of that, their most experienced returning player, Nevelle Clarke, will miss half the season due to the NCAA suspension. Suffice it to say a player like Howard would have an excelllent opportunity to come in and start from day one.

"They need a cornerback that can come in and play now," Howard said.

Two other schools are in the primary mix. Howard visited Texas A&M in early April and will fly to Louisville immediately after his UCF trip. He hopes to make a decision shortly thereafter. Iowa State and Arizona State have also been in play.

Howard would have three seasons of eligibility remaining.