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StumbleXavier Grimble listening to other schools after shake-up at USC
Gorman tight end’s college choice could be affected by Pete Carroll’s career choice
Bishop Gorman’s Xavier Grimble looks for yards after the catch during the Sunset Regional semifinals against Palo Verde.
Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010 | 4:23 p.m.
A Closer Look at Xavier Grimble
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del.icio.usXavier Grimble, Bishop Gorman Tight End.
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When Bishop Gorman senior tight end Xavier Grimble verbally committed to USC last spring, he assumed the recruiting process was over.
But when news broke Friday that USC coach Pete Carroll was almost certain to leave for the Seattle Seahawks, other colleges almost immediately contacted the 6-foot-5, 250-pound Grimble.
He was more than willing to listen to what they had to say.
"I wouldn't say that I am de-committed, but I definitely open-minded to other schools," Grimble said. "Things have changed. I am going to take some visits and see where is the best place for me."
Grimble, who caught 35 passes for 705 yards and nine touchdowns in 2009, is rated as the nation's No. 1 tight end by multiple scouting services. He is consensus top 50 prospect.
Grimble has no recruiting trips scheduled, but said LSU, Florida and UCLA are all possibilities. He will probably travel to UCLA next weekend.
Grimble said he would wait to see what transpires at USC before making a decision, but plans on keeping his options open. He said schools like LSU and Florida have said their scholarship offer is still good.
"I have to back track a little bit and look at a few schools just in case," Grimble said.
Grimble said he tried to contact Carroll on Friday, but still hasn't heard back. He did talk to USC quarterback Matt Barkley, who encouraged Grimble to stay committed.
"USC is just a big question mark right now," Grimble said. "I'm still trying to get over that Pete Carroll is gone."
Bishop Gorman senior tight end Xavier Grimble stands on the sideline Saturday during the Gaels 62-21 victory against Del Sol in state championship game at Sam Boyd Stadium. Grimble, who is committed to USC, is wearing a USC bracelet.
Grimble helped Gorman win two state titles over the last three years, including this fall when the Gaels went 15-0 and finished ranked No. 25 nationally. He's also a contributor on the defending state champion basketball team.
He's disappointed about Carroll leaving, but equally optimistic that a better opportunity will present itself.
"Everything happens for a reason," he said. "USC is definitely where I want to go. That is my dream. Pete Carroll was a big part of that, but not the only reason. I still like the school and what it has to offer."
Ray Brewer can be reached at 990-2662 or ray.brewer@lasvegassun.com.
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If he thinks Pete leaving is bad, wait until the NCAA finally drops the Death Penalty on USC.
They've been paying players one way or another FOR YEARS, and it's about to all come out.
real traitors are coaches like Pete Caroll who high tails out when their program runs into some adversity. I am willing to wager that Alabama coach would not be there for another year and likely the team will fall apart 2010 season. These coaches are like paid mercenaries.
I dont see where Carroll is a traitor... Hes taking advantage of an opportunity that was offered him...None the less all the teams that fired him are traitors also...Also what major university in the nation doesnt pay players that play sports for their winning teams...One way or another they get paid even if anyone thinks otherwise...If this kid is smart,, he should keep his options open to other offers...
Wonder why this kid doesnt give UNLV a shot..The team could use a great tight-end...Then again he probably was offered more from USC,,,
Grimble, come to UNLV!! Be a part of the future.
UNLV did put one tight end in the league. Greg Estandia
Sufferin, calling high school kids rats and traitors for taking scholarship offers at national powerhouse programs is over the line. you should be ashamed of yourself.
If you read some of Sufferin's comments you will see this guy is nothing but a D-bag. Grimble...if you do happen to read this, do what is best for YOU. You have a bright future in college and the NFL, just like Steven Jackson.
Make sure you get that education. SC is probably not the best place for that. Connections..Yes, but not education.
People that take cheap shots at kids are scum. Great season and best of luck
Just take a look at the all decade high school team and note how no one on the list went to unlv. Good for Gimble to keep his options open. Comments about Carroll are just unfounded. He gets 2 first round draft choices this year, a great Owner and strong facilities as well as fan base. How USC hires someone who regularly got into hot water at Tennessee with minor infractions, was on staff when the Reggie Bush issues were taking place at a time where USC is facing possible NCAA violations that makes no sense. Then again USC has an AD who is clueless. To criticize Carroll for taking over a great NFL franchise that is seeking leadership with resources is plain old silly. There are plenty of NFL teams you can make negative comments about, the Sea Hawks are not one of them.
Hauck learning how to get to Gorman and other local schools is something that Sanford never understood. One of these days he will get a local kid to stay.
Go ahead and slam Kiffin for leaving after one year. Sark did not leave Washington after one year and he has equal success to Kiffin. At least kids can pull out now before they sign.