UConn was the first FBS program to extend an offer to Worcester (Mass.) Doherty Memorial outside linebacker Yawin Smallwood, and that early attention has the Huskies in an enviable position.

Smallwood, a 6-foot-4, 225-pound linebacker, also received an early offer from UMass. Things have picked up recently.

"UNH offered me," Smallwood recalled. "Tulane's been close to verbally offering me. URI verbally offered me, too."

This summer Smallwood plans on camping at Boston College (June 15-18), UConn (June 20) and Maryland (June 25). He said he's leaving open the possibility of visiting other schools.

Right now one school is standing out.

"My favorite out of all of them is UConn. I've seen how much their program's been changing. They're sending players to the NFL. The coaches are very good and all the players work hard."

Has he thought about making an early commitment?

"I'm just gonna wait until after I do all my camps," he said. "Then wait a little bit into the season."

Smallwood said he has kept in regular contact with UConn head coach Randy Edsall and assistant Mike Foley via e-mail.

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