When signing day rolls around on Wednesday, Clemson will add yet another impressive top-tier recruiting class. With a number of big-time commits scheduled to sign, five-star cornerback A.J. Terrell possesses as much potential as any according to his Westlake (Atlanta, Ga.) coach, Kareem Reid.

We caught up with Reid and spoke with him about Terrell’s signing next week.

In his first season as Westlake’s football coach, Reid carried his team to the state championship game, where they lost to Roswell. Reid relied on Terrell’s leadership and talent to help rally his team around their new coach.

“It just meant a lot to us. He was a guy that had a ton of accolades. He had an option to go one way or another under new leadership and he chose to buy in right away,” Reid said. “The kids in our program look up to him and respect him. So once he chose to buy in it made it easier for everyone else to fall in line. He did whatever was asked of him as far as playing quarterback, a little receiver as well and defensive back. He was just a team guy and that made the transition smoother for us.”

Reid said Terrell’s skill set is complemented by his work ethic and humility.

“He’s coachable. He’s extremely humble. He comes from a great family. It’s been a pleasure,” Reid said. “I have so many great things to say about him. He has an opportunity to be a special player at Clemson because he’s just ready to work and he’s focused. He doesn’t care about all the flash because he’s just on a mission, and you can see it right away.”

At 6-foot-2, 180 pounds, Reid said Terrell is already physically ready to play with the big boys, and he plays like it.

“I’m excited about his future. I think he’s a guy that can come in and contribute right away because he has a high football IQ,” Reid said. “It won’t take him long to pick up what’s going on. I think physically he is ready. I had Trayvon (Mullen) last year and I think he is ahead of where Trayvon was right now playing in high school at the same time. I think that’s going to give him a chance to contribute a lot. He can play corner and he’s physical enough to play safety if need be. He likes to tackle and hit.”

Having coached one of Terrell’s future teammates as well, Reid thinks they have some similarities, but Terrell’s style is a little different from Mullen’s.

“They’re two different types of players in my opinion,” he said. “Trayvon is like you’re typical cover-corner guy… he’s not scared to tackle but he’s fast. I think Trayvon is a little faster straight-line but the physicality and toughness that A.J., he just beats people up. Trayvon will cover you up and A.J. will beat you up, so I think that’s where they’re different.”

Terrell has not even begun his tenure as a Tiger, but Reid believes he has all of the talents and abilities to be successful at the pro level.

“I think he will be a first-round pick to be honest with you,” Reid said.

“I think I’ve blessed Clemson with their starting corner of the future,” he added, chuckling.

Reid knew as soon as Terrell made his commitment back in August that he was in it for the long haul. Clemson fans might even be able to spot Reid in Death Valley for a couple games this year to watch one of his prized pupils in a Clemson uniform.

“He has been committed for so long that it seemed like it would be a forgone conclusion. There is really no buildup or excitement as far as signing,” Reid said. “I’m actually looking forward to a couple of my other guys that just committed because they’re going through their process, but as far as his future is concerned, I’m excited to watch him play. I’m gonna be in Death Valley a whole bunch next fall watching both of my kids and just enjoying it.”

We are now taking orders for our limited edition magazine Mission Accomplished. The first orders will be shipped the week of January 23. Order yours today to make sure you get a copy!