Saying 'No' wasn't easy for Jonathan Bullard.

“It was kind of tough,” the four-star defensive end from Shelby (N.C.) Crest said between practices this week for the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas. “That's one of the hardest things in the recruiting process, is looking a coach in the eye and telling a coach who gave you a great opportunity that that school isn't the best for you.

“I want to thank all the schools that offered me.”

The 6-foot-3, 255-pound senior has told all schools 'No' except for South Carolina, Clemson and Florida.

The Gamecocks hold a certain appeal by being the first to offer a scholarship, almost a year ago. Then, a summer visit to Clemson sold Bullard on the school. He also feels early playing time is a possibility as a Tiger. As for Florida, Bullard likes the coaching staff there and is drawn to Gainesville by his good friend and teammate, four-star safety Rhahiem Ledbetter, who committed to be a Gator in November 2011.

Bullard actually remembers the time when he didn't even have one scholarship offer, much less the dozens he's accumulated.

“It's a big honor...coming from where I started,” said Bullard, who also strongly considered Nebraska as well as several other schools.

Becoming a national name in recruiting wasn't as easy as it might have seemed. Bullard commended his high school coaches for helping elevate his stature among college recruiters.

“I just work hard and have great coaches that put me out there and put me in the combines that help me be successful,” Bullard said.

Bullard said he has no leader but certainly has a school in mind. He's scheduled to announce his college decision on Dec. 21.

“This recruiting stuff has been going on long enough,” Bullard said with a smile. “I have an idea where I'd like to go.”