Michael Barnett Commits to Virginia Tech
By Tim Thomas
Nov 16, 2013; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies coaching staff including head coach Frank Beamer (left) on the sidelines in overtime. The Terrapins defeated the Hokies 27-24 in overtime at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
The Hokies took a hit in their Class of 2015 recruiting when Marcus Lewis decided to decommit but the Hokies got an even bigger commitment a few days earlier. This player that the Hokies picked up is putting them in a position to have a very strong class early on next season and could allow the Hokies to have another have top 25 class. This player is the type of early commit that Frank Beamer will be very excited to have especially since this junior was offered a scholarship back when he was a freshman. This player should excite Virginia Tech fans and be a big part of the future whether it be at offensive tackle or defensive end.
Michael Barnett, a four-star offensive tackle and defensive end from Woodland High School in South Carolina, has commited to Virginia Tech. Barnett is ranked 191st in the ESPN Jr. 300 and is clearly a massive pickup for Frank Beamer after the decommitment from Marcus Lewis. Barnett has the potential to be a defensive end or an offensive tackle for the Hokies and already has some of the skills to play either position. Versatility makes Barnett a great pickup for the Hokies but there are some other reasons that should make Virginia Tech fans very excited.
No matter if Barnett plays offensive tackle or defensive end, he will knowledge of both of those positions which will be an advantage that he can use to shut down defensive ends or trick offensive tackles. Barnett has been impressed by Virginia Tech and seems like the type of player that is willing to work hard to develop into another NFL prospect with the Hokies. Barnett also does track and field which shows that he is not only a quality football player but also a very good athlete. Barnett has a lot of potential and the fact that he is already a four-star prospect before his senior year makes this great news for Virginia Tech.