RECRUITING: Green Valley’s Macklin commits to San Diego State

Isiah Macklin was offered a scholarship by San Diego State in July, and Green Valley's senior wide receiver took his time weighing his options.

But the 6-foot-5-inch, 200-pound Macklin couldn't wait any longer.

Macklin made an oral commitment to San Diego State, choosing the Aztecs over a scholarship offer from UNLV.

Macklin's commitment is nonbinding, and the first day he can sign a letter of intent is Feb. 3. San Diego State's coaches cannot comment until that time.

"They offered me a while ago, so we felt like I had to make a decision soon," Macklin said Monday. "Over the week, I was talking to my parents about it and we were going over stuff and we decided we liked San Diego State better. We liked the education, and we liked the football program and the coaches."

Macklin has nine receptions for 124 yards and one touchdown this season for Green Valley (2-2). As a junior, he was fourth on the Gators with 26 receptions for 319 yards and three TDs.

Macklin said he expects to play wide receiver when he arrives on campus, though some scouting services project him as a tight end.

"He's definitely got a frame you can put more weight on," Green Valley coach Brian Castro said. "He runs well for a big guy. He's tall. There's definitely potential for him to big-time football player for them.

"The biggest thing for him is just to continue to get more and more confident and to continue improve in blocking. Just being a total, well-rounded player is important for him at this point."

Macklin is the 14th known commitment for the Aztecs' 2016 recruiting class and second from the state, joining Reed tight end Parker Houston. Macklin, who impressed at San Diego State's summer skills camp, has not made an official visit to San Diego State.

Former Canyon Springs coach Hunkie Cooper is in his first season as San Diego State's wide receivers coach. Green Valley defeated Canyon Springs 45-37 last season as Macklin made two receptions for 15 yards.

"This means a lot because I worked for it for a long time, and it just feels like a dream right now," Macklin said. "I think I can bring a lot to the team to help them win. They said they need big receivers, and I'm that guy."

Contact reporter David Schoen at dschoen@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-5203. Follow him on Twitter: @DavidSchoenLVRJ