Malik Reaves signs with Villanova

Malik Reaves, a 6'0" 183 pound cornerback from Fletcher in Neptune Beach, FL, signed a National Letter of Intent with the Villanova Wildcats football program today, according to Twitter. Reaves projects to play either corner or safety at the college level, and is one of a few very talented defensive players.

Malik Reaves committed to Villanova on January 10th, shortly after Coach Roc Bellantoni (who started his recruitment to Villanova) left the Main Line for Florida Atlantic. He was the 12th verbal commitment of the 2014 class. Playing for Duncan U. Fletcher High School, Reaves recorded 89 tackles, 2 INTs, 2 FF, and 4 blocked FGs this past season. He also returned one punt for a touchdown.

Reaves was recruited to play in the defensive backfield at Villanova, while 247 Sports classifies him as a Safety prospect, Rivals has him listed as a cornerback. He apparently played cornerback more in high school, so it is plausible that he will compete for a spot there at Nova. Here's the depth chart heading into 2014.

Villanova lost Craig James, Corey Reeder and Shane Harris to graduation at the cornerback position. Trey Johnson and Jason Ceneus both earned playing time during their freshmen seasons, and should be ready for a bigger role this fall. C.J. Logan may be the most experienced player returning.

Corner is definitely a position that is open for competition going forward. While Logan, Johnson and Ceneus are all very talented, but there will be spots available in the secondary this season and next, either as a starter or back-up, that Reaves will be competing for.

Reaves could also find a home for himself at safety, where he would project as a free safety.

He chose Villanova over offers from Colorado State, South Dakota State and a number of other schools at the FCS level.

Quotable

#NovaNation

— Malik Reaves (@TakeOffReaves) February 2, 2014