It’s quite impressive the job that the Georgia Tech recruiting staff continues to do in pulling in commits for the 2023 class. In the midst of wild uncertainty regarding who will be the head coach, the Jackets received their second commitment of the week in offensive lineman PJ Wilkins.
A native of Georgia (and nephew of NBA Hall of Famer Dominique Wilkins) Wilkins moved to Maryland to play his last season of high school football at the prestigious St. Frances Academy. The reward? A high-profile matchup with IMG Academy on Friday night. It was a chance to show the country what he could do against some of the top high school talent and give those on Georgia Tech’s staff a confidence boost in their evaluations skills.
The relationships started back in the summer, when Wilkins was initially offered during one of the prospect camps. There he forged two key relationships. One with current commits Elias Cloy and Gabriel Fortson and the second was with scouting director Kenyatta Watson Sr. Between then and now, daily conversation with both groups have led Wilkins to his decision.
“As for Elias and Gabe, we met at the camps back in June and just stayed in contact all through the fall,” Wilkins said after announcing his commitment. “Coach (Kenyatta) Watson and I talk almost every day, so it just makes you feel like family when you have those connections for that long.” Wilkins has also talked to interim head coach Brent Key several times, first back in June.
The chance to make a difference and compete right away were two things that stuck out to Wilkins when making this decision. He , along with the whole 2023 class, is well aware of the situation surrounding the Georgia Tech program but he isn’t fazed.
“Of course, they are rebuilding. But it is a chance to make an impact and be in the city,” Wilkins said. “The chance to play close to home and go to school there is too much to pass up.”
Wilkins received some late interest, choosing Georgia Tech over offers from Boston College, Charlotte and USF. He figures to garner some late interest going into signing day as well, but the Georgia Tech staff feels confident in the ability to keep them in the fold.
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