Redlands (Calif.) offensive tackle Jared Layel is happy with how the recruiting process has been for him so far.
"Recruiting has been really fun. I've been talking with San Diego State, Army, Navy, and Air Force. It's been a really good experience to find out more about the schools," he said.
Though his options are still open, Layel can name an early favorite.
"My favorite school right now is probably Army, just because I like the whole idea of giving back to your country. It's just a great institution. I love tradition and brotherhood, things like that, and I think West Point would be the best school for that for me," he said.
Over the summer, Layel plans on taking a few visits and beginning the process of narrowing down his list.
"This summer I'm going to a camp at West Point and visiting campus, talking with the coaches. I'm also probably going to go across the country with one of my friends and see Michigan, Notre Dame, Boston College, and visit a bunch of schools like that," he said.
Aside from looking at colleges, Layel is also working hard to ensure his last year with the Terriers is his best.
"We started training right after Christmas break, like the week after, and it's helping us get stronger and become more prepared. I'm just getting bigger and smarter, really anything I can to get better," he said.
The 6'3", 255 lb. Layel, who credits his size and his football IQ as two of his greatest strengths as a player, is also putting in the effort to be a leader during his final season.
"I feel like it's my responsibility to help motivate the team a little bit more. There's a lot of ways to do it, but my way is to yell and scream and get intense," he laughs.