Paramus Catholic's Rashan Gary, Nation's Top High School Football Prospect, Picks Michigan

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Rashan Gary, the Paramus Catholic High School defensive lineman and consensus top prospect in the country, is going to Michigan.

The 6-foot-5, 293-pound blue-chip recruit announced his decision Wednesday, which is National Signing Day, on ESPN. He chose the Wolverines over Clemson. He also visited Ole Miss, Auburn and Southern California and drew interest from many other top programs.

"I picked Michigan because that's a place where I felt comfortable, that's a place that I feel my family feels comfortable, and that's a place where I feel the academic support is great and the degree holds a lot of weight," Gary told ESPN. "I feel that it's going to be successful for me, and it's going to help me for a lifetime goal, and that's to make sure I provide for my family."

One factor that no doubt played a role in Gary's decision was that his former head coach at Paramus Catholic, Chris Partridge, serves as Michigan's linebackers and special teams coach. The Wolverines also have two former Paramus Catholic players, safety Jabrill Peppers and offensive lineman Juwann Bushell-Beatty.

Gary was the top-ranked prospect according to 247Sports' composite rankings.

Clint Brewster of 247Sports wrote of Gary: "Gary's got the edge rushing ability to be a finesse defensive end in a 4-3 or a defensive tackle. He can really play any technique along the defensive line because of his blend of athleticism, quickness, size, and explosive power. He's blown by offensive lineman and penetrated the gap before they even get their hand off the ground.

"He's got rare abilities as player because of his versatility and all he can do. It's rare when a player has the quickness, speed, and size that he has but also the toughness and physicality to finish. He's an instant impact player that will see the field as a true freshman."

Wolverines coach Jim Harbaugh got word of Gary's decision just as Michigan was winding down its "Signing With the Stars" spectacle. The Wolverines brought out former Yankees star Derek Jeter, who nearly went to Michigan before signing with New York, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, a former Wolverines star, and pro wrestler Ric Flair.

Gary, however, was at ESPN's studios in Bristol, Connecticut.

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