When Westlake High School (Atlanta, Ga.) head coach Kareem Reid took over the football program earlier this year and began evaluating five-star cornerback A.J. Terrell, Terrell’s physicality and intelligence as a player caught his eye.

After Terrell announced his commitment to Clemson on Friday at Westlake, The Clemson Insider spoke with Reid about Terrell and his decision.

“First and foremost, the thing that jumped out to me was his physicality at the corner position and his strength,” Reid said. “He’s college-ready right now, as a high school senior, to come in and contribute right away.

“The next thing that impresses me is his intelligence overall for the game. He has a high football IQ and does a good job picking up schemes on the fly. All of those things make him a great player.”

Reid likened Terrell to former Florida State and current Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey, as well as Florida defensive back Quincy Wilson.

“He compares well to Jalen Ramsey, a combo guy who can play some safety and play corner at the same time,” Reid said. “And also another kid at Florida, Quincy Wilson. They kind of have the same body type and build, so he compares well to those two guys.”

Citing Clemson’s success with developing defensive backs, Reid is confident Terrell will fit in well at Clemson and experience a smooth transition to the collegiate level.

“(Defensive backs) coach (Mike) Reed does an excellent job,” Reid said. “The success they’ve had over the years has shown that they can develop players and get him where he needs to be, which is ultimately the NFL, for him. I think it’s a great fit for everybody involved.”

Reid believes Terrell made a great choice in Clemson.

“He’s going to a great place with great people, great facilities and a great program that’s trending upward right now, so all-around it’s a good fit for him,” Reid said. “His family will be able to support him, come to his games and be there for him through his college experience.”