News Summary
Michael McClenton, a three-star linebacker from Ocoee, has decommitted from UCF after previously pledging to the program. McClenton, known for his impressive high school stats, is now reopening his recruitment. This decision impacts UCF’s 2026 recruiting class, which has seen a mix of commitments from Florida and out-of-state recruits. As McClenton navigates his recruitment journey, he is expected to attract significant interest from various colleges, given his athletic prowess and leadership skills.
Ocoee – Michael McClenton, a promising three-star linebacker from Ocoee, has officially decommitted from the University of Central Florida (UCF) after pledging to the program since January 14, 2023. He shared his decision with fans on the social media platform X on Wednesday, revealing that he is now reopening his recruitment process.
At 6 feet tall and weighing 225 pounds, McClenton has built a reputation as a formidable player. The On3 Industry Ranking lists him as the No. 986 overall prospect and the No. 79 linebacker for the 2026 recruiting cycle. He also ranks as the No. 130 player in Florida, showcasing his potential on a broader scale.
During his junior year at Ocoee High School, McClenton tallied an impressive 219 tackles and 19 sacks, contributing to a remarkable total of over 500 tackles throughout his high school career. His robust defensive performance has attracted interest not only from UCF but also from various other programs, particularly those outside the Power Five conferences, such as Liberty and Marshall.
Current Status of UCF’s 2026 Recruiting Class
With McClenton’s decommitment, UCF now has eight commits in its 2026 recruiting class, five of whom are Florida natives. The Knights’ recruiting class currently ranks No. 52 nationally and No. 10 in the Big 12, as per the On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings. The top-rated commit in UCF’s class is Tyren Wortham, a four-star wide receiver from Sarasota, who stands at No. 344 in the national rankings and No. 52 among wide receivers.
Other noteworthy commitments include Kane Archer, a three-star quarterback from Greenwood, Arkansas, and Antoine Sharp, a three-star linebacker from West Palm Beach, along with several other three-star athletes across different positions.
Future Prospects for McClenton
Despite his impressive high school stats and strong performances on the field, McClenton’s recruitment saw increased interest from programs outside the major conferences. UCF head coach Scott Frost had previously taken a keen interest in McClenton’s recruitment, which underscores the competitive nature of college football recruiting.
McClenton’s athletic ability is complemented by his high football IQ, an understanding of the game, and respected leadership qualities. His high school coach, Buck Gurley, has recognized McClenton for his relentless work ethic and preparation, particularly his skill in reading plays before they unfold on the field.
Conclusion
As McClenton looks to navigate his recruitment journey post-decommitment, speculation grows about potential new destinations. With his track record and a strong foundation in football, McClenton is expected to be a sought-after prospect, attracting attention from a wider array of colleges as he continues to explore opportunities for his athletic future.
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Additional Resources
- MSN Sports
- Wikipedia: Michael McClenton
- On3 Sports
- Google Search: Michael McClenton
- Orange Observer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michael McClenton
- Orlando Sentinel
- Google News: Michael McClenton
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
