4-star DB Yusuf Corker commits to Kentucky Wildcats Football

It seems appropriate a man named Corker would announce his decision ahead of the New Year’s celebration this week.

On Monday, four-star defensive back Yusuf Corker announced his commitment to Kentucky. Corker made the call at a ceremony that was part of his birthday celebration.

The 6-0, 183-pound corner has been planning for months to announce his decision on Dec. 26, his 18th birthday, but for most of that time, Tennessee had been viewed as the favorite. He posted a picture Saturday that showed cupcakes decorated with the colors and logos of his four finalists, which included South Carolina, UK, Michigan State, and Tennessee.

Corker hails from Woodland High School in Stockbridge (GA) and has reported offers from the likes of Penn State, Auburn, Alabama, Clemson, Georgia, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Stanford, Florida State, and Ole Miss among others.

ESPN ranks him 221st overall and 21st among cornerback prospects in 2017. Scout.com ranks him 268th overall and 26th among cornerbacks.

Make no mistake about it: This is a massive get for UK as Corker has the potential to be a contributor as a true freshman and make an impact. That’s hard to do with as much depth as UK has there next year, but that’s how good Corker is.

It’s unclear what this commitment means for UK’s remaining 2017 targets. With 22 commitments now, UK only has room for 2-3 more guys in this class, but there are plenty of talented guys still on the board, including Thayer Munford, Danny Davis, Lynn Bowden, Jon Ford, Bruce Judson, and Kevaughn Dingle.

That tells you how good Corker is that UK is taking his commitment with those guys still on the board.

Here is an excerpt of ESPN’s scouting report for Corker.

Possesses good overall size and length. Has room for additional bulk. Plays with good functional strength which should only improve with continued physical development. Easy accelerator with very good recovery and closing speed.

Great anticipation and timing of breaks to undercut passes. Good ball tracking skills. Excels in zone schemes where he reads QB to man. Puts himself in great position to make plays and understands leverage.

Has lock down skill set, can play on an island. Makes great reads on the underneath pass with precise timing and anticipation. Transitions fluidly with limited wasted motion in and out of his pedal.

Makes great adjustments to the ball while it's in the air. Hand eye coordination is excellent. Wins most 50/50 balls and has natural high point skills. Does a great job retaining inside leverage in man coverage. Can flip his hips and run vertically with faster receivers.

Here are some highlights of the newest Cat in action:

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