With fall camp starting up, we're getting into the stretch run on our roster countdown. Today we meet a member of the secondary who's looking to build off a strong freshman campaign.
#30 S JaQuez Jenkins
Redshirt Sophomore, 6'2", 186 lbs.
Stats In 2010: Jenkins played well last year, appearing in 11 games and totaling 10 tackles, including a TFL, a fumble recovery, and an interception against Clemson in the Meineke Car Care Bowl.
Current Position On Depth Chart: JaQuez was listed as a co-backup with Tyson Butler at strong safety on the post-spring depth chart.
How He Came To USF: Jenkins came to USF from Lakewood High School across the bay in St. Petersburg. Jenkins was a jack of all trades for the Spartans, but played quarterback and safety for LHS his senior season. In only seven games in 2008, Jenkins passed for over 1300 yards and 19 touchdowns, rushed for 500 yards and five touchdowns. and even made 20 tackles on defense before missing the rest of the year with a torn patellar cruciate ligament. Jenkins chose USF over offers from Illinois, Louisville, Syracuse, North Carolina, and Ole Miss, among others.
Recruiting Rankings: Jenkins was listed as a three-star recruit by Rivals and Scout. Rivals listed him as the #36 safety prospect in the country, while Scout had him ranked #86 at safety in the class of 2009.
Projected Playing Time In 2011: Jenkins will fight off Butler and incoming freshman C.J. Garye for the 4th safety spot in the rotation. JaQuez will get a few more snaps this season, and should face off with Mark Joyce for a starting position next season.