Cincinnati Recruiting: Ted Hammond talks Bearcats offer ahead of junior year

The Bearcats have been successful putting together an impressive 2023 recruiting class but the following cycle is right around the corner as well. 3-star defensive lineman Ted Hammond took a visit to hometown Cincinnati on June 3 and is preparing for his junior season at St. Xavier High School.

Cincinnati Recruiting: Ted Hammond talks Bearcats offer ahead of junior year

“I love the fact that the city where I’m from has given me an opportunity to play for them. I plan on visiting later this year and attending some games,” Hammond told me in an interview last month. “I would like to learn more about the program but I visited earlier this spring so I saw how a practice operates.”

The 6’5, 258-pound defensive lineman has an ability to line up on the interior and edge, in addition to playing tight end for the Bombers. Hammond has earned offers from Cincinnati, Duke, Kentucky, Iowa, Minnesota, Pittsburgh and more. According to On3 Recruiting, the Bearcats (43.8%) are considered favorites to land him.

Hammond also discussed his family playing a role in his recruiting process per Cincy on the Prowl: “Most of my family is from Cincinnati so they could attend my games!” The Cincinnati native later described his play style and strengths: “My play style is very physical and strong but I could work on footwork and hands.”

Not only is Hammond a physical force on the field but he’s an aggressive screener on the court. There’s no doubt that his combination of strength and toughness will translate to the next level. Hammond is the 14th highest rated recruit in Ohio and the 20th ranked defensive lineman in the country per 247 Sports.