Arizona's New Year started off with some good news on the recruiting front, when running backΒ Nathan TilfordΒ revealed he'd be enrolling early.
With less than a week until UA students start class β it starts Monday β Arizona is hoping to avoid any last minute stress as it relates to the six players from the 2017 class enrolling early.
So, of course, here come the Oregon Ducks, trying to throw a wrench in those plans. Tuesday, the Ducks offered UA quarterback commit Braxton Burmeister a scholarship. Burmeister — along with linebackers Jose Ramirez and Tony Fields, tight end Bryce Gilbert and defensive lineman Sione Taufahema — is expected to enroll early, and Tilford told the Star on Tuesday that he planned to room with Burmeister, rated a four-star recruit by Scout.com.
It's unclear how the Oregon offer impacts Burmeister's situation with the Wildcats, though he's still expected to enroll at Arizona. Still, in recruiting, nothing is official until the recruit signs his letter of intent.Β
The announcement of his offer came viaΒ Akili Smith, one of Burmeister's mentors who played in the NFL after a standout college career at... Oregon.
Congratulation to @Braxton1B and his offer to @oregonfootball. I feel like a proud step dad. @MBASports1 #AST pic.twitter.com/XcObySlUbS
β Akili Smith (@akili_smith) January 4, 2017
At Oregon, Burmeister would likely not have a shot at real playing time for a couple years afterΒ Justin Herbert thrived for the Ducks as a true freshman in 2016. With the Wildcats, Burmeister is expected to come in and compete withΒ Brandon Dawkins andΒ Khalil Tate for immediate playing time.Β
At the least, this is a situation that begs watching.Β
