Ahead of the “busy” season for college football recruits, a popular Florida wideout has locked in two official visits within the American Conference.

Spanish River’s Jayden Elder announced that he is set to officially visit both Tulane and USF this summer. Elder will first be in Tampa from June 5-7 for his official visit with the Bulls, and on June 18-20, the wideout will be in New Orleans for his visit with the Green Wave. These visits come on the heels of Elder receiving multiple P4 offers, including recent ones from Northwestern and Cincinnati, and scheduling his first OV with Pittsburgh from May 28-30.

Asked about his visit with USF, Elder highlighted the “momentum” of the program and what the coaching staff brings to the table.

“What really stands out to me about the University of South Florida is how much momentum the program has right now. You can see that they’re building something very serious. The energy around the program seems to be growing, especially with the move toward a new on-campus stadium and facilities. It feels like a place that’s hungry to win and ready to take the next step. Academically, USF is also strong in multiple areas, which matters to me because football won’t last forever. Knowing I’d be at a school that’ll get me ready for life outside of football, while also competing at a high level, stands out a lot.

“I’m most excited to go up there and talk to the coaching staff again. Coach Myles(White) and I have built a very strong relationship, and he is a guy I can go and talk to. It doesn’t even have to be based on football. Another thing is Coach Brian Hartline. The opportunity to potentially play under Coach Hartline is a very big thing for me, especially given the reputation he has built for himself and the players he has developed and sent to the league.”

Regarding Tulane, Elder emphasized the academics and “culture” that they bring to the table as big positives.

“What stands out to me about Tulane University is the balance between elite academics and high-level football. It’s not easy to find a school that competes nationally while also having that kind of academic reputation. That says a lot about the discipline and character of the players they recruit. I am looking forward to touring the facilities and getting a feel of the environment over there. Coach Sheridan and I have also built a strong relationship that I’m looking forward to continuing to build.

The culture also stands out. Tulane has built a reputation recently, and that shows in how they compete. They play fast, physical, and confident. It feels like a brotherhood there. Tulane feels like a place where you can grow as a man, a student, and a player all at once.”

Previously, Elder spoke about what he is looking for in a college program during his recruitment process.

“My biggest thing is a program that feels like family. I want strong relationships with the coaches, players, and support staff. Development is also a huge part of it for me, too, especially early playing time opportunities and a plan to help me grow on and off the field. Academics also matter a lot, because I want to be set up for life after football. I also want to be in a program where competing for championships is the standard every year.”

Elder is coming off a season in which he dominated for Spanish River, posting 1,005 yards and 16 total touchdowns. According to MaxPreps, his best game came on November 21 vs Barbra Goleman High, where Elder dominated to the tune of 134 yards and two touchdowns on seven receptions. Elder still has yet to announce his final two official visits for the summer.

Cover Photo Credits: Christian Dressler, NewEraPrep Student Intern