Jaden Dabbs was keeping his college football option open until he researched Army following an offer from an offer from safeties coach Danny Verpaele.
Dabbs was impressed enough to schedule his first visit to West Point this past weekend. And, the visit left a lasting impressing on the Oscar Smith (Va.) safety.
After talking with his parents and thinking more about what his future would look like, Dabbs committed to Army coach Jeff Monken on a FaceTime call Tuesday night.
“I knew this was the right place for me on and off the field,” Dabbs said. “When I got there (on the visit), I loved it. Loved the staff, players, campus, everything. It felt like home. I learned how West Point can develop me as a man and a player and fell in love.”
Dabbs was provided a glimpse into his future, speaking with graduating safety Quindrelin Hammonds and current safety Gavin Shields during his visit Friday and Saturday.
“You can just tell how great men they are and how they have been developed there,” said Dabbs, who is 6-1 and 170 pounds. “Talking with them about their experience and hardships really helped me.”
Dabbs, who was also drawn to the prestige of West Point as a fan of history, was offered by Old Dominion and recruited by West Virginia, Syracuse and James Madison, made 39 tackles, broke out 10 passes, picked off two passes, added two tackles for loss and had a loss his junior season.
“I’m excited to be there (at Army) and very thankful to the coaches,” Dabbs said.
Dabbs’ message to Army fans: “Just wait and see these next four to five years. You will love me as a ball player and person. Beat Navy.”
