Butler (Kan.) Community College linebacker Josh Kirkland made it official on Thursday night, committing to Syracuse during a home visit from coach Doug Marrone in Paxico, Kan., population just more than 200.
“It’s a small-town kid going big time,” Kirkland said.
The 6-foot-3, 207-pound Kirkland said he settled on the Orange last weekend after an official visit to Syracuse, N.Y. His pledges gives Syracuse 13 for its 2013 class.
“I knew when I visited, especially after meeting the coaches,” said Kirkland, who helped Butler to an 11-1 mark and No. 2 final NJCAA ranking. “It was just how caring they are and how they have your back. But I had to come back and talk to my family.”
Syracuse began to recruit Kirkland this fall along with teammate and fellow linebacker Tommy Sanders.
The trip to New York was a first for Kirkland, who was also recruited by Houston, Texas State and Northern Illinois.
- Josh Kirkland
2013
- Committed: Syracuse
“It was quite an eye opener,” Kirkland said. “I’m from the farm out in the country. But I loved it. I’m a very open-minded guy.”
He will sign next Wednesday, as the midterm period for junior-college players opens.