Fresno State football: JC defensive back Jackson Finch set to join team

After two years at Contra Costa College, defensive back Jackson Finch couldn’t pass up an opportunity to play again in front of family and former teammates.

Finch committed to Fresno State on Tuesday, reuniting with his former prep teammates Jared and Justin Rice.

Jared is a redshirt freshman tight end at Fresno State this fall, and Justin, a running back, signed with the Bulldogs in February. The three were teammates at Central Catholic High-Modesto in 2013.

“Hard to pass up,” said Finch, whose family lives in Modesto. “Ideal situation and it just worked out. I’m back with the (Rices).”

Finch has yet to sign a letter of intent but said he plans to enroll June 26 for summer school.

He finished his Contra Costa career with six interceptions and 46 tackles, two tackles for loss and two broken-up passes. He took an official visit to Delaware State and decided that’s not where he wanted to be. Finch met Fresno State assistant coach Burl Toler III and “things took off from there.”

Finch said Fresno State coaches told him he’ll be playing at free safety. He’s listed at 6-foot-1, 210 pounds.

Finch said he’s happy to land with Fresno State after meeting with the coaches.

“I got a really good vibe from them,” he said. “My parents did as well. We can tell they’re very genuine, welcoming and straight up. They let me know they’re expecting a lot out of me and looking to play right now. I couldn’t be happier.”

This story was originally published June 9, 2016 at 3:43 PM with the headline "Fresno State football: JC defensive back Jackson Finch set to join team."