Virginia Football Recruiting: David Eldridge III Commits!

Wide Receiver isn't a big need in this class for the Hoos, after they've taken a number of good WR prospects over the past two years. Still, there are 3 guys graduating this year, which means there will be roster spots open at WR. And, despite having a number of very capable underclassmen in Keeon Johnson, Kyle Dockins and Andre Levrone, the Hoos still want to develop more depth at the position.

They are off to a good start, with the commitment of David Eldridge III, out of Nokesville, VA and Kettle Run High School. Nokesville is just off 29 near Warrenton, which makes Eldridge's trip down to Charlottesville pretty easy. That was likely a big part of his decision making process. Kettle Run hasn't had many DI recruits, and haven't had a major conference recruit in a number of years. That shouldn't take anything away from Eldridge though.

Eldridge is rated a 3 star recruit by Rivals. He's the #81 WR in the country. He runs the 40 in mid 4.4s at 6'0" and 165 pounds. Obviously, he'll have to put on some weight and muscle before he's ready to make an impact at the college level. But that type of speed can't be learned and will absolutely play. He seems like an obvious replacement in the slot for Dominique Terrell after this season. Eldridge had offers from a handful of ACC schools, as well as Illinois, East Carolina and UNC-Charlotte. VT was recruiting him, but apparently had not offered.

Eldridge is also a special teams standout, and could make an early impact there. He returned kicks and punts for Kettle Run, and could eventually end up doing the same for the Hoos. Early in his career, he's more likely to be a gunner on punt returns, where his speed could be impactful.

Here are some highlights for Eldridge:

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He's fast, there's no denying that. He also shows good hands. He doesn't appear to be the best route runner, a weakness he admits to and says he's working on. If he can develop that skill, and also put on 15-20 pounds of muscle, he could be in line for early playing time in the slot for the Hoos offense. His speed would be a huge weapon there.

With Eldridge, the Hoos now have 4 commitments for 2015:

Juan Thornhill, DB - Altavista, VA

Ryan Bischoff, OL - Plymouth Meeting, PA

Nick Johns, QB - Washington, DC