ORLANDO, Fla. — Since moving to the American Athletic Conference, winning the Fiesta Bowl and touting a No. 3 overall pick in the NFL Draft, UCF has experienced exposure like never before – and it has started to pay dividends in the recruiting season.
“I think what helped in the living room was the exposure we’ve gotten on national TV, I think that’s where the American Conference has really helped us,” said Head Coach George O’Leary.
Boasting one of their most anticipated classes in recent history the Knights have signed on 17 players for the 2015 season, including four star receiver Tristan Payton and the highly touted defensive back Brandon Scott to replenish two significantly depleted position groups.
“I would say that this class is the most talented class since I’ve been here, as far as talent as needs,” O’Leary said.
After maintaining one of the most complete receiving corps in all of college football over the past three seasons, the Knights are dealing with significant turnover at the position. Tristan Payton, who was pursued heavily by big-time programs across the country, has the potential to fill the recent void. Ranked as the No. 14 in the country as a wide receiver by Rivals, the four-star player out of Jacksonville reeled in 47 catches for 857 yards and eight touchdowns as a senior.
Brandon Scott was ranked No. 32 in the nation as a safety by 247Sports and picked up three stars as a recruit from Rivals, ESPN and 247Sports. Conference rivals Tulane and Tulsa submitted offers to Scott, who finished with forced six fumbles, had six interceptions and four blocked field goals.
Full list of UCF signees:
Rashard Causey, DB
Aaron Cochran, HB
Titus Davis, DL
Marcus Foster, LB
Quintin Hampton, LB
Brendon Hayes, DL
Luke Hiers, OL
Tyler Hudanick, OL
Pat Jasinski, LB
Neal Nelson, LB
Tristan Payton, WR
Bo Schneider, QB
Brandon Scott, DB
Cam Stewart, WR
Monte Taylor, DL
D’erren Wilson, WR
