On Saturday, three-star tight end Jake Pickard was one of many prospects on hand at Ohio State's camp hoping to earn an offer from the Buckeyes.
The 6-foot-6, 231 pound prospect from New Jersey has offers from Boston College, Cincinnati, Connecticut, Illinois, Louisville, Nebraska, Oregon, Purdue, Rutgers Syracuse, Temple and Virginia.
Pickard didn't get the Ohio State offer he hoped to earn, however, the coaching staff is still monitoring the tight end.
"I talked with coach Hinton for awhile," he told Eleven Warriors. "He likes me a lot but didn't think I caught enough balls. Great route runner, and very tough but wants to see see my ball handling skills a little more refined."
Playing offensive tackle as a junior has caused his hands to be a little rusty, Pickard said. Since late February, the tight end prospect has put on 29 pounds while decreasing his body fat percentage. For Ohio State, his hands will be the deciding factor on whether or not he gets an offer.
"[Hinton] said he checked off 9/10 boxes for an offer but wants to see how my hands develop a little more."
With four-star tight end Chris Clark committed to Michigan, the Buckeyes had to shift their focus to other targets, including Pickard. Over the next month, the Buckeyes will continue to evaluate their remaining options.
"He really wants me to come to Friday Night Lights," he said. "He will also be rewatching my film from camp."
Boston College, Nebraska, Oregon, Purdue, Syracuse and Virginia are currently the top six schools in Pickard's recruitment. Where would Ohio State stand if they offer?
"Definitely in my top schools," Pickard said. "I'd have to visit again to see if they would be my number one."
The Buckeyes might need to make a move soon for the three-star prospect or they risk losing out on him.
"I'll see how my visit goes with Oregon [in July] then decide if I want to come [to Friday Night Lights]."
