Cormani McClain, nation's top uncommitted prospect, sets decision date; Alabama, Florida, Miami are finalists

Lakeland High School (Florida) five-star cornerback Cormani McClain is ready to announce his college commitment

Lakeland High School (Florida) cornerback Cormani McClain is a truly special talent.

In a 2023 class that has been defined by elite quarterbacks such as Arch Manning, Malachi Nelson, Dante Moore and Nico Iamaleava, McClain has been firmly entrenched in the debate of "who is the nation's top overall prospect" for month.

Sitting at No. 2 overall, the 6-foot-2, 165-pound defensive back is the top uncommitted prospect in the country.

But not for much longer.

 On Tuesday, McClain announced an October 27 decision date - with Alabama, Florida and Miami as the finalists:

While McClain has largely remained mum on a favorite, it is widely believed that the Gators have plenty of reason for optimism heading into his commitment.

However, Alabama is a recruiting juggernaut and Miami has pulled off several shockers in the NIL era, so neither should be counted out.

What will the winner of the "McClain sweepstakes "be getting? A plug-and-play cornerback who could develop into a top-10 NFL draft pick, particularly given the value the league has placed on long, fluid outside corners in the pass-heavy era.

Here's what 247Sports had to say, in part, about him as a prospect:

"A new-age cornerback prospect that almost looks like he was made in some type of create-a-player mode given his length, foot speed, ball skills, instincts and competitive drive. Initially started high school career off as a wide receiver before being thrust into action on the defensive side of the ball due to injury. Excelled right away at his new position totaling nine interceptions as a sophomore and then 10 more as a junior. Extremely advanced from a technical standpoint for someone that grew up primarily playing offense. Doesn’t take many, if any, false steps while in reverse and always looks to be in complete control of his body. Likes to click his feet as he gains depth and does a nice job of keeping his eyes in the backfield. Looser hips allow him to mirror wideouts of all different sizes before he eventually has to turn and open up." 

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