Class of 2025 tight end and wide receiver Jonathan Harding from the Villages High School in Florida has committed to play college football at Memphis. The 6-foot-4, 225-pound senior-to-be chose the Tigers over offers from Appalachian State, Arkansas State, Army, Georgia State, and South Florida.
Harding’s recruitment surged this offseason, garnering 13 total offers. His impressive blend of size, athleticism and skill makes him a coveted prospect. He has a large catch radius, strong hands, clean footwork and he is a superb route runner. Harding is a formidable red zone threat and he has great body control that enables to win often in close quarters. He has the ability to “climb the ladder” and secure jump balls, making him a reliable target in scoring situations. As a junior, he tallied 47 receptions for 548 yards and 6 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to produce consistently in the passing game.
A versatile athlete, Harding began his high school career as a quarterback before transitioning to tight end and wide receiver. He also played on the defensive side of the ball, lining up at defensive end where he amassed 65 tackles and 11 tackles for loss in 2023. This experience has helped him develop a great understanding of the game from multiple positions, enhancing his football IQ.
This offseason, Harding had the opportunity to showcase his talents at several DR7 events, where he demonstrated a toolbox full of skills that elite pass catchers possess. He consistently beat coverage and excelled in the short to intermediate route tree, proving his ability to get open and make plays. He showed off his precise route running, strong hands, and ability to make contested catches in traffic.
Harding’s physical attributes and skill set make him an intriguing prospect for Memphis. He has the frame to add healthy bulk at the next level, which will only enhance his effectiveness as a blocker and receiver. Given his versatility and experience, Harding should be able to compete for early playing time with the Tigers.
Memphis head coach Ryan Silverfield and his staff have secured a dynamic and versatile playmaker in Harding. His combination of size, athleticism and football IQ will be a valuable asset to the Memphis offense. Look for Harding to make an impact and become a key contributor for the Tigers in the coming years.
