Jesuit’s Larry Hodges newest addition to Tight End U

TAMPA — Miami is known for producing tight ends. Jimmy Graham, Greg Olsen and Jeremy Shockey, among others, all played for the Hurricanes.

That piqued the interest of Jesuit's Larry Hodges, who is considered one of the top tight ends in the country.

"I mean, it's Tight End U," Hodges said.

There were other factors, too. Hodges liked the coaches and the academics. After visiting in the spring, Hodges was sold.

"I never thought about it twice," Hodges said. " I knew I was going to be a 'Cane."

On Wednesday, he made it official by signing his letter of intent in the morning, then celebrating with friends and family during a ceremony after school.

Teammate Dane Belton, a defensive back who also has a knack for big plays in the return game, signed with Iowa.

Much like Hodges, Belton knew where he was going for months. Still, that did not lessen the excitement.

"I had one exam today, but it was hard to stay focused," he said. " My mind was on Iowa and on signing. It's just a blessing to be in this position."

One of Belton's best friends, Durant defensive back Demarcus Governor, stayed over Tuesday night. Governor signed with Central Michigan on Wednesday.

"Demarcus and I have played together since youth leagues," Belton said. "We talked about how this was our dream and it's now true."