Bears Get on the Board With First Commitment in 2019 Class

The Bears kicked off their 2019 recruiting class early with today's commitment from 6-2/170 Upland High School cornerback Zahran Manley after his weekend visit to Berkeley.

"It was probably my third time up there," said Manley. "It just kind of reaffirmed what I already believed about the great culture, great coaches, great teachers, great facilities and great academics at Cal. And it's a beautiful place, too."

Manley's interested in studying business and sports a 3.8 gpa at Upland. He also plans to be an early enrollee next spring to get a jump on acclimating to collegiate play and academics.

"Academics are a big priority for me," said Manley. "Cal's one of the top schools in the country and one of the best business schools in the world. They'll prepare me for life after football, too."

The Bears have been looking to get longer at all positions, particularly at cornerback, signing 6'1" corner Chigozie Anusiem in the 2018 class and kicking off the 2019 class with their prototype corner as well in the 6'2" Manley.

"Coach Alexander sees me as a Sherman/Ramsey type of cornerback -long, rangy, tall, physical corner," said Manley.

Beyond his football and academic aspirations, comfort level and fit played a big role in Manley's decision process. He found that in spades at Cal with head coach Justin Wilcox and staff.

"I already had a really strong relationship with Coach Alexander and I got to spend time talking with Coach Wilcox, as well," said Manley. "The whole staff is full of amazing coaches. They have great demeanors and are comfortable to be around and talk to so I'm very comfortable with the coaching staff at Cal."