Jahmari DeLoatch, a four-star cornerback from Chesapeake, Virginia, had a big-time offer to Michigan and another to stay near home and play for Virginia Tech.
Ultimately, though, DeLoatch decided to hitch his wagon to the Cincinnati Bearcats. That's a decision that was at one time unheard of, but credit to Cincinnati head coach Scott Satterfield and former head coach Luke Fickell before him for making the Bearcats a legitimate destination.
In all, the package of football program, city and school just seemed to make sense for DeLoatch.
“I love the culture and how they go about their guys and program,” DeLoatch told On3’s Steve Wiltfong regarding his commitment. “A city I feel comfortable in along with coaches and teammates I think will serve me well. I believe their business degree will open doors for me and help me succeed in life outside of football also.”
A lot of ppl to thank but I give majority to the most high #GoBearcats #N2tiboy5 @coachcscott pic.twitter.com/M7JqfdiA22
— Jahmari DeLoatch (@757Mari_) June 17, 2024
Again, choosing Cincinnati over Michigan (especially) used to be seen as a bad move, but the Bearcats are now a Big 12 program and they've had recent success sending players to the NFL. Travis Kelce may be Cincinnati's most famous alumni, but for a cornerback like DeLoatch, Sauce Gardner is undoubtedly the prototype.
According to 247Sports, DeLoatch is the ranked No. 28 cornerback in the 2025 class.
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