Texas Tech had an exciting Fourth of July in terms of recruiting, as they secured a commitment from Michael Dever, a receiver from Lubbock (TX) Cooper, who announced his decision to join the Red Raiders on Thursday evening.
Dever was not previously rated by most recruiting rankings services at the time of his commitment, but he made his debut in the 247Sports recruiting rankings on Saturday with a high three-star 88 rating, placing him among the top 75 nationally at his position.
Gabe Brooks, a National Recruiting Analyst for 247Sports, provided the following assessment of Dever:
“High jump standout who puts that vertical explosion to use in pads as a frequent contested-throw ball-winner. Plays bigger than listed size because of positive frame length and athleticism. Displays impressive body control in the air with the strength to beat high school defenders at the catch point. Runs with a long-striding gait that can build speed. Leaks to space and shows improvisational awareness when needed to give his QB a cleaner window.”
“Flashes speed-changing ability/awareness to amplify the higher-end gears he achieves. Encouraging run-after-catch context as a junior. Busy gait sometimes impacts RAC balance. Legitimate P4-caliber receiver prospect with strong multi-sport data — 6-8 high jump, 21-11 long jump — that combines with frame length and on-field context to likely provide substantial long-term potential.”
Dever had previously committed to Colorado State but changed his commitment to Texas Tech on Thursday. He selected the Red Raiders over other reported offers from North Texas and Texas State. Last season at Lubbock Cooper, he caught 40 passes for 672 yards and 11 touchdowns, and he also achieved a sixth-place finish at the state meet in the high jump with a height of 6-foot-2.
When asked about his decision to switch to Texas Tech, Dever stated, “I feel like the Big 12 is improving and gaining more exposure. I believe that my talent can contribute to bringing Texas Tech closer to a playoff appearance and a win.
As Texas Tech continues to grow and improve, I feel that my talent is on par with or better than most players, and no matter where they place me, I will always be five steps ahead and will do my job. I will be someone to watch. Remember that.”
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