[LeeCoUKFan]

Hearns hasn't commmitted, but Cats in front
Justin Rowland
Special to CatsIllustrated.com

Contrary to the internet rumor mill, which was working overtime this weekend, four-star linebacker James Hearns has not committed to Kentucky.

Yet, at least.

But make no mistake about it: If Hearns had to choose today, Kentucky would likely be happy with his decision. The Wildcats just now have to hold their breath, possibly until Signing Day.

"It might go down to Signing Day," Hearns said. "But Kentucky is in the lead. I loved the trip. I loved the coaching staff and what they're trying to do.

"The program hasn't had a lot of recent success so they're trying to turn it around. There's a chance to come in and make history."

Turning the program around was a main theme that Mark Stoops touched on. That resonated with the Tallahassee (Fla.) Lincoln prospect.

"He said it starts with bringing in good players and guys that can come in and make an early impact," he said. "He talked about wanting me to be that beast in the middle of the defense in the SEC for them."

Did Hearns think about committing?

"I definitely contemplated it," he said. "At the same time I still wanted to get back home and consult my parents and my family.

"My family is all for it. They don't know too much about Kentucky football but they definitely know coach Stoops. He's my hometown recruiter from Florida State and he's been in and out of the school a lot. I got to know him well and (his family) would be all for it."

Stoops has already had an in-home visit with Hearns.

Academically, according to Hearns, everything is okay and good to go.

"Academically everything is fine. I've got good people at Lincoln in my corner so there are no worries about that. It looks like I'll be good to go," he said.

When asked what other schools are in the mix Hearns mentioned Auburn, Louisville, Florida State, South Carolina, USF and Houston as the other schools that have been in contact with him recently.

Auburn is recruiting him as a tight end. Hearns said that's not necessarily a negative but it's something to consider. There were rumors Hearns might be taking an official to Louisville before Signing Day but he told Cats Illustrated that he's not sure if he will do that.

http://kentucky.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1465061