5-star Mecole Hardman Jr. commits to Bulldogs

Per 247 Sports’ composite rankings, Smart’s first recruiting class at Georgia ranks sixth overall and Hardman is his third five-star recruit.

As an “athlete”, Hardman does not has a set position and can play either wide receiver or cornerback, but he seems to be leaning toward the latter.

The 5-foot-10, 169-pound prospect was more of a want than a need for Ohio State, but the Buckeyes would have found room for him in their 2016 class if he wanted to come to Columbus.

Hardman, from Elbert County (Ga) is classified as an athlete due to his versatility. A high school quarterback and cornerback, he has the potential to be either a receiver or a cornerback in college, as well as a return man. He’s also a notable All-Name Team selection.

He used cake – actually four of them – in place of hats on the table during his National Signing Day ceremony. Instead, he trekked the short distance to Georgia, where he got some special attention.

But it wasn’t Tennessee, Michigan, Florida or Clemson where he’ll take his talents.

More from Scout: “He is so good on offense, but could he be even better as a corner?”