Jonathan Hankins checking things out

Detroit Southeastern’s Jonathan Hankins is working hard to attract more schools but also to play better. As Hankins and his family continue to look at schools more they want to make sure he will choose the right place. GBW talked with Jonathan and his father about what they want in a college.

Shifting through offers from colleges can sometimes be a daunting task for recruits and their parents. Jonathan Hankins and his father are going through that process to make sure that it is the best place for his son. However there are also a few schools that have not offered that they are looking at as well.

Michigan is one such school that hasn't offered Detroit Southeastern defensive lineman Jonathan Hankins as yet ... however father and son are taking a look at the Wolverines, and are interested in what they see.

“Michigan has been my childhood favorite," said Jonathan to GoBlueWolverine. "I like them -- I mean it is Michigan and it helps that it is close to my home. They are in my top three.”

Jonathan's father has had a chance to talk with the head man himself, Rich Rodriguez, and likes what he sees.

“I like him a lot," aid Mr. Hankins. "We sat down and chatted for a few minute. I feel good about him. We are going to try and make the Bar-be-que."

The Hankins are going to go up for the meet and greet this Saturday, and Jonathan will be coming up again in June.

“I will be coming up to their football camp for a day or two."

Jonathan is standing at nine offers at this time: Minnesota, Oklahoma, Toledo, Illinois, Wisconsin, Bowling Green, Kansas and Virginia. He surely will receive more this summer. 

Those schools will need to stress academics because that is what the Hankins family feels is important. 

“Academics play a big part of what we are looking for; we are also looking at what type of majors do they offer that he is interested in,” Mr. Hankins said. 

Jonathan feels strong about academics as well. 

“I am carrying a 3.2 GPA and I am looking into being a business major. I just need to stay on top of my academics -- it is important to me and my family."

  Hankins just recently won the M.V.P. on defense and shared the award with his best friend and teammate, William Gholston. The two of them talk all the time about attending college together among other things. 

“We talk in 2nd hour Chemistry class about recruiting and playing together in college ... that is something we would really like to do."

With his football season three months away Jonathan just wants to keep improving football-wise to be successful. 

“I am working on my explosiveness and hitting the weights to get stronger and much quicker. Right now I weigh about 305 pounds. I would like to get down to 295 before the season."

Mr. Hankins is very happy for his son and what he has and will accomplish.

“I am really proud of Johnathan. He is a well grounded and a special young man."