Just In: Unofficial Visit Back to Georgia Tech Leads to Commitment on 3-Star Offensive Lineman

Georgia Tech’s string of successful recruiting efforts persists as they secure their fourth commitment within the last day, adding Atlanta recruit Xavier Canales to their roster.

Canales, a three-star offensive lineman standing at 6’4″ and weighing 275 pounds from Frederick Douglass High School in Atlanta, Ga., shared with GoJackets.com that his official visit from May 31 to June 2 involved interactions with coaches, current players, and fellow recruits during his time at the Flats.

“It was really enjoyable,” Canales remarked. “I had the opportunity to spend a significant amount of time with coaches, players, and fellow recruits, explore the impressive campus, and witness what Coach Geep Wade is striving to achieve.” After visiting Georgia Tech, Canales went on to visit Cincinnati from June 7 to 9. Subsequently, he made an unofficial return visit to Georgia Tech on Tuesday, June 11, where he revealed that the visit led to his decision to commit to the Jackets.

“After my practice last Tuesday [June 11], my coach took me to Georgia Tech for an unofficial visit where I could relax, hang out, and observe the practice. We had a brief tour and then talked with Coach Brent Key. That’s when I committed. I informed the rest of the staff, and it was an incredible experience. Everyone was elated and thrilled.” One of the primary reasons Canales favored Georgia Tech over Cincinnati was that he felt a better sense of belonging at Georgia Tech than he did at Cincinnati.

“I feel like I fit in better in the locker room at Georgia Tech than I did at Cincinnati,” Canales explained. “The coaches genuinely care about you as more than just a player, and there are positive vibes all around, from the defensive staff, offensive staff, to the trainers, everyone.” Another crucial aspect of Canales’ decision-making process was what a school could offer him for life after football, which Georgia Tech fulfilled.

“On the academic side, it’s the top-ranked public school in the nation. It can prepare you for a life beyond football. That’s something that’s very important to me. Football will eventually end, and I want a solid foundation to fall back on, and a Georgia Tech degree will best suit me.” Now situated just a few miles from home, Canales eagerly anticipates playing college football on the Flats and is excited for his family to be a part of this upcoming chapter.

“It holds significant meaning,” Canales expressed. “It won’t be difficult for my family to come and watch me play, and it will be a convenient trip for them. I just have to perform at my best when they are around.” When asked what Georgia Tech fans can anticipate from him in their white and gold colors, he stated that he is dominant up front and possesses the ability to excel in the run game by reaching the second level.

Georgia Tech prevails over Cincinnati to retain the three-star Atlanta native.