Categories: College University Athletics

Ocoee Linebacker Decommits from University of Central Florida

A linebacker demonstrating his skills in a competitive high school football game.

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.