Tariq Edwards Updates Status

Marlboro County (Bennettsville, S.C.) outside linebacker/defensive end Tariq Edwards made an official visit to the University of Illinois this past weekend. The visit was a surprise considering the 6-4, 225-pound standout senior verbally committed to Virginia Tech earlier this summer, but at this time it appears Edwards still plans on signing with Tech in February.

Edwards said his official visit to Illinois “was a good visit. Everything went good as far as getting to know the coaches and players. Everything was pretty good.”

Asked to characterize Virginia Tech’s position, he replied, “I remain committed to Virginia Tech, but I’m trying to look at other schools to get the best decision as far as if grey-shirting at Virginia Tech is the best decision for me. I’d rather see if coming in January of 2010 is best for me or if I’d want to go somewhere and come in with my class.”

Illinois is currently the only other program in the race besides Virginia Tech, though Edwards boasted scholarship offers from Clemson, Duke, N.C. State, South Carolina and Vanderbilt before committing to the Hokies. He and his brother Tyrell, who has also committed to Tech as a grey-shirt, have kept in touch with primary recruiter Charley Wiles.

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