Grayson (Ga.) linebacker Jalen Smith visited UCF for a game last season and returned recently for the 'Hometown Hero' recruiting event.
"I loved it a lot," Smith said. "I felt right at home. The coaches have been talking to me a lot. It's a home atmosphere. They always talk about family and building a relationship with us. It really does feel like home."
Defensive coordinator and linebackers coach Travis Williams is Smith's primary recruiter.
"We have a great relationship," Smith said. "Getting to know him a little better was real good, just seeing what he's all about. I got to meet his family too, his wife and kids."
Smith set the Grayson record with 173 tackles during his junior season, which was also the top number in Class 7A.
"Coaches usually tell me they like how I can cover sideline to sideline," Smith said. "I can make plays around the ball. I'm always around it. I'm a long, rangy kid that goes after the ball every play. Somebody that's physical also, getting off blocks and doing the dirty work."
Smith has around 30 offers, including UCF, LSU, Purdue, West Virginia, Maryland, Indiana, Pittsburgh, Texas, Duke, Tennessee, Wake Forest, Mississippi State, Boston College, Kansas and Kansas State.
He said it's too early to establish a top group, but says UCF is definitely up there.
"What stands out the most is the atmosphere," Smith said. "It feels like a family. Everybody is together and wants to see you succeed. They've got your back... UCF is headed up. It's going in a great direction. Coach (Gus) Malzahn is doing amazing things. It's gonna be fun to watch."
