Highlights

TAMPA, Fla. ? The University of South Florida football program announced the signing of standout junior college linebacker Kion Wilson on Thursday morning.

Wilson completed his junior college studies at Pearl River Community College in Mississippi and will be enrolled in school at USF during the upcoming spring semester

“We are very excited about Kion Wilson,” said USF head coach Jim Leavitt. “He is a tremendous addition to our program. With Ben Moffitt graduating, Kion will compete immediately for the starting spot at middle linebacker.”

The 6-2, 235 pound Jacksonville native played strongside linebacker at Pearl River but considers himself a natural at middle linebacker.

Wilson had 98 tackles, seven tackles for loss and one sack during in nine games as a sophomore at Pearl River.  He accounted for 117 tackles, two interceptions and six sacks as a freshman.

“Kion has the potential to be a very good player at this level,” said USF assistant head coach and defensive coordinator Wally Burnham.  “He is exactly what we were looking for in this recruiting class at the linebacker position”

“His upside is very high. Kion is a big guy that can run. He is a very aggressive, flow-of-energy type player. I watched him for two years, paid attention to his leadership abilities and really believe he has the attributes we want at that position.

Wilson attended Jacksonville's Raines High School.  He is rated as a four-star recruit by Scout and a three-star recruit by Rivals. Miami and Louisville also heavily recruited Wilson.

Wilson has two seasons of eligibility remaining.

National signing day for football is February 6, 2008.