Cincinnati Recruiting: Donavan McCall recaps recent visit to Nippert Stadium

Donavan McCall was one of many recruits to attend Cincinnati’s dominant win against Kennesaw State in the home opener earlier this month. The 2024 tight end prospect should continue to receive interest from the Bearcats moving forward.

Following his sophomore year, the Columbus native transferred to Hilliard Bradley High School and has played well in five games this season. McCall discussed his ongoing recruitment and recent visit to Nippert Stadium in an interview with me.

"“I visited Cincinnati for their home opener. It was awesome. The thing I was most excited about was getting to meet the coaches and interact with them. I think the Bearcat program is a great program to be apart of. They produce a lot of great athletes and tight ends. I feel like Nate Letton is great at his job. I see myself going to Cincinnati down the line but only God will know.”"

McCall racked up nine catches for 99 receiving yards and one touchdown in his first three games, helping Hilliard Bradley start the season 3-0. Despite losing back to back games since then, McCall has continued to play at a high level.

Cincinnati Recruiting: Donavan McCall recaps recent visit to Nippert Stadium

The Bearcats are obviously more focused on wrapping up the 2023 recruiting class but the 2024 class will start to take shape soon as well. According to 247 Sports, Cincinnati is interested in nine tight ends and 15 wide receivers for the latter cycle.

After missing out on a pair of top tight end targets in 5-star Landen Thomas and 4-star Tayvion Galloway, the Bearcats will focus on 4-star prospects like Walter Matthews, Dylan Mesman and Brady Prieskorn, plus McCall and several others.

The 6’5, 220-pound tight end has impressive physicality, size and speed (4.73 40-yard dash) that should translate to the next level. During the recent interview, McCall also broke down his play style and what areas he hopes to improve.

"“I use my size and strength as an advantage for getting blocks down, getting off of small defenders and going up to get the football. My most important area I want to work on is holding my blocks more than just showing strength to punch then stay and move my feet.”"