Since 247Sports began their rankings in the 2010 recruiting class, Detroit powerhouse Cass Tech has produced fourteen prospects with at least four stars next to their name.
That makes it all the more impressive that the Technicians current star, wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones (6-2, 192), might be the best of the bunch.
"It's an honor to be recognized as one of the best and have so many scholarship opportunities," Peoples-Jones said. "My surroundings helped me get exposure awhile ago and it has been there ever since. I give a lot of credit to my coaches, mentors, and all the talent that is part of our team here in Detroit."
All of the elite programs in the Midwest are in the boat with Peoples-Jones plus Alabama, Clemson, Florida, Florida State, LSU, Miami, Stanford, and USC. He's done plenty of traveling around the country and that has given his list of suitors a local, regional, and national feel.
"Tennessee, Auburn, Alabama, Florida, and Florida State are the five schools I'm going to hit on my spring trip," Peoples-Jones said. "I'm leaving recruiting open ended though, I could decide any time or anywhere I feel most comfortable. I don't have a leader and anything can happen."
The Hurricanes were on the scene with Peoples-Jones earlier than most and that's something all the other offers haven't caused him to forget.
"My relationship with them started a long time ago when colleges were finding out who I was," Peoples-Jones said. "I know all those coaches are gone but Miami has definitely reached out to me. We're talking now and I'm working to find a time when I can get back there. They're excited to show me around again and I can't wait either."
Peoples-Jones camped in Coral Gables in June of 2014, after his freshman year. They offered him on the spot along with three of his older teammates.
"Being down there was so fun, we had a good time and I met so many people," Peoples-Jones said. "The biggest thing I remember was how beautiful the city was. Obviously they have a strong tradition with putting out some of the best players in college football history."
Peoples-Jones doesn't come off as particularly egotistical and he elects to present himself in a similar light to so many other players.
"Every football player can get better at something so I'll keep working on my strength and speed," Peoples-Jones said. "I try to make the most out of every play and I want to be the best one on the field each time I step out there. I really like Amari Cooper, Odell Beckham, and Julio Jones. Those guys are the best playmakers and hopefully I can carry a little of that over."
Peoples-Jones is a five star prospect according to the 247Sports Composite, ranking him 6th overall in the nation, 1st at his position, and 1st overall in the state of Michigan.