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football Edit

Status quo for SoCal linebacker

The recruiting process has been accelerated for most prospects so it is almost rare to find a recruit that is taking his time. Ezekiel Noa has received seven scholarship offers, but he is in no hurry to decide.

“I haven't had a chance to visit any of the colleges that have offered me yet so I have to stay patient,” said Noa, a 6-foot-0, 225-pound inside linebacker prospect from La Mesa (Calif.) Helix. "I am looking for a school that is going to support me, and a school that has a nice environment. When I can take some visits, and the time is right, I'll decide."

Noa does not currently have any unofficial visits planned. He said he has to talk it over with his parents. There is a chance Noa will wait until the fall when he can begin taking official visits. Colorado is one of the schools he wants to visit in the future.

“They really want me to visit their school and they are telling me they really like my film,” Noa said when asked about the Buffaloes. “It is definitely a program on the rise with the brand new facilities they have there. It looks really nice. It looks like they have a nice atmosphere out there in Colorado, too. They are always sending me pictures.”

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Currently ranked among the nation's top 25 inside linebacker recruits, and the 52nd best prospect in California this cycle, Noa has offers from Colorado, Colorado State, Nevada, San Diego State, San Jose State, Washington and Wisconsin.

Noa is starting up spring practices with his Helix teammates this week, but some college coaches have already come through the school during the spring evaluation period.

“Some colleges came by for weight training or just to meet me. I think they wanted to see me in person to see how tall I am, determine what my size really is,” he said. “Nevada stopped by, so did Boston College, Arizona, Arizona State and Colorado. It is good just meeting them. They are all inviting me out to visit their school.”

Noa said USC is his dream school. The Trojans have only shown mild interest so far.

“The atmosphere they have and the tradition of having great players come through there is what I like about USC,” he said. "That is one of the schools I have seen so far."

Noa was rewarded with first-team all-state and San Diego Section Player of the Year honors in 2015 after he racked up 105 tackles and nine-and-a-half quarterbacks sacks. He also starts on offense at running back.

“I play with a lot of passion. I have a big heart,” Noa said. “I pride myself on being a leader. I am always leading by example and I like to encourage my teammates.”

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