OT Emmanuel McCray commits to Ole Miss

The Rebels made the offensive tackle position a high priority for this year's class, and it looks like they have gotten off to a great start with the four year starter from Forest Hill (MS).

"Coaches Nutt and Markuson said they wanted me to be the bell cow of the offensive line class. They wanted me to be the leader and bring in some more recruits from Mississippi," added the 6' 5", 280 pound Emmanuel McCray. "They told me that they have been looking at my film, and I am flexible and have things that are unusual for a big man like myself."

What did McCray say back?

"I committed. It has been a dream of mine to play for Ole Miss since I was a little kid. It is my home state school. My family is ecstatic. They have always loved Ole Miss too. It just motivates me to play that much harder so I can be the best possible player I can be for Ole Miss."

Emmanuel personally knows a former Rebel.

"My brother played with Jamie Mitchell who now plays for the Vikings. Everybody at our school compares me to him, body wise. They say I am real aggressive like he was too."

Aggressive is part of McCray's game.

"I am a very physical player. I like to say run blocking is my biggest strength because of how physical and aggressive I am, but I have become a great pass blocker over the years. But overall, I have a very physical and aggressive mindset."

The well spoken Jackson (MS) resident had this to say about what is his biggest accomplishment so far in his high school career.

"I just feel honored to be healthy and have the opportunity to play for my high school, teammates, and coaches. I love these guys around me. We are like a big family. I know that is not any award or anything like that, but that is how I feel. I just thank God every day for giving me the opportunity to play this game. I live, eat, drink, and sleep thinking about football."

McCray attended the "invite only" Jr Day at Ole Miss this Saturday but also attended last week's Jr Day. Why attend both?

"When I went to the first one, Coach Nutt wanted me to come back to reevaluate me. I did not have a problem with it. I like Coach Nutt, and I have always been a big fan of Ole Miss'."

What has Emmanuel learned about Ole Miss during his trips?

"It is a very nice campus. I like to have a change of scenery. Education comes first with Ole Miss, and that is what I am looking for. The coaches are very enthusiastic , and they make you feel at home. Ole Miss is on the rise, and I am just glad to be a part of it now. It just feels like home."

What new did McCray learn?

"I learned that they are trying to change the mindset of the players. They want a winning attitude. But mainly, they put education first. The coaches are what sold me. I love their passion for the game and how they want to make the team into one big family. I am just happy to be a part of it now. I am all about family."

Who else was recruiting the All-Region selection?

"MSU, USM, Alabama, Tulane, some Ivy schools, Illinois, Navy, and Army.

McCray ran a 5.37 forty at the last combine he attended and reports a reports a 2.4 GPA / 19 ACT.