Ole Miss is building a strong class of defensive backs for 2025, featuring three four-star recruits and a well-regarded three-star. Recently, they secured another four-star.
He, who has received offers from prominent schools like Georgia, Michigan, Miami, Florida State, Florida, Washington, and Arkansas, is currently ranked as the #180 player nationally, making him the top-rated commit for Ole Miss so far.
He is listed at approximately 5’11” and 175 lbs. While he might be considered slightly undersized, he showcases impressive athleticism, particularly when it comes to playing the ball in the air.
In the early part of this season, his highlights reveal that he’s making a significant impact as a wide receiver for Escambia High School. In a recent game, he recorded two touchdown receptions, made several key catches, and also delivered some strong punt returns.
Clardy’s full-season highlights from his junior year highlight both his defensive skills and impressive ball-handling abilities. Besides playing safety and wide receiver, he also takes snaps at quarterback near the goal line. Whether on offense or defense, Clardy consistently demonstrates his knack for attacking the ball in the air, making contested catches, and utilizing his balance and speed to gain yards after the catch.
I see a comparison between Clardy and 2024 Ole Miss signee Noreel White, who is currently a reserve wide receiver. Both have similar builds and showcased versatility, playing various positions in high school.
Ole Miss’s defensive back class is already impressive, featuring Clardy alongside four-star safety Keon Young (#269 overall), four-star corner Maison Dunn (#274 overall), four-star safety Cortez Thomas (#300 overall), and three-star safety Major Preston (#708 overall).
After this season, the Rebs will lose three of their top cornerbacks (Trey Amos, Isaiah Hamilton, Bandon Turnage) and five senior safeties (Trey Washington, John Saunders, Louis Moore, Key Lawrence, Yam Banks). While they’ll likely need to tap into the transfer portal to fill these gaps, it’s encouraging to see Pete Golding and his staff actively recruiting multi-year contributors for the secondary.
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