Washington Huskies

Where will elite 2017 DB Darnay Holmes end up?

Published Feb. 9, 2016 6:48 p.m. ET

foxsports

As we turn the page into the class of 2017, an elite corner out of California has broken some significant news when it comes to his recruitment.

Calabasas High School five-star corner Darnay Holmes has narrowed his focus to a list of seven schools, per Scout.com. Alabama, Arizona, Nebraska, Ohio State, Stanford, UCLA, and Washington are the institutions in consideration. Holmes also announced he will be making his decision on his birthday (June 23).

Holmes isn't the biggest corner in the world, but he's got an impressive skill-set. Cat-quick with his agility, he can stay with speedy receivers in the slot, and also pass-catchers positioned on the perimeter. Holmes is also a tricky player in the return game with his ability to evade defenders and burst upfield.

Nebraska, Stanford, and UCLA could be the major players in this race -- with Arizona a potential darkhorse candidate.

High school teammate Marquel Dismuke signed with the Cornhuskers this month. Holmes himself has taken five unofficial trips to Lincoln, and has multiple high school teammates (Tristan Gebbia, Keyshawn Johnson Jr.) heavily considering Nebraska.

The allure of a Stanford education often trumps anything else a school can offer a prospect. It's also located somewhat close to Holmes' hometown.

UCLA is the local school in this equation. Holmes' father has a longstanding friendship/relationship with the Bruins' defensive back Demetrice Martin. Lastly, Holmes' older brother -- Darick -- is a receiver for Rich Rodriguez and the Wildcats.

The winner of this eventual sweepstakes will be getting a very talented player with the potential to play right away on the collegiate level.