ISU High on the List for Coleman

(This article originally posted on iowastate.rivals.com.)

Iowa State's early interest has made it the frontrunner for Houston (Tex.) Cypress Falls defensive end Stedmann Coleman. The 6-foot-2, 255-pound strongside DE is garnering interest from Kansas, TCU, SMU and Houston, but if signing day were tomorrow, Coleman would be a Cyclone.

While the Cyclones are the only program to extend a formal scholarship, Coleman says that's not the only reason Iowa State sits atop his list. "(Defensive line coach) Mike Nelson is the one talking to me, he's a real cool guy," Coleman said. "The most important thing for me is the location. I want to be in a good community, have good surroundings, and feel like I'm in a good place."

While he has yet to set a date, Coleman promised he would visit the Cyclones at some point before finalizing his decision. He also said he didn't want to rush the decision, and would see several campuses before deciding on his future football home. A state final scheduled later than normal will likely push Coleman's decision date into early January.

Cypress Falls competes in the high-profile 5A class of Texas football, and Coleman has plenty of experience competing against some of the best high school players in the nation. In addition to the scholastic season, during which Cypress Falls has advanced to the state quarterfinals two straight years, Coleman got a taste of big-time competition at Texas A&M's camp.

"There are some players down there, some real good players. Real big, real fast players," said Coleman. Apparently, his fellow camp attendees weren't the only thing making a big impression in College Station. Coleman was very impressed with Dennis Franchione's coaching staff and all the football facilities. However, A&M has yet to show serious interest in obtaining Coleman's services, and the Aggies' loss could be the Cyclones' gain.

According to Coleman, Mark Mangino's staff at Kansas is making the biggest push, but the Jayhawks have yet to overtake either Iowa State or TCU at the top of his list. Those three are joined by Utah, Utah State and SMU among schools that have sent Coleman text messages and placed home phone calls in recent weeks.

Coleman also stated that proximity to his home near Houston will not play a large factor in his college decision.