Recruiting junior-college football players can be risky.

Some prospects fail in the classroom. Others can’t make the physical adjustment from two-year college to major college.

Moorpark College coach Jim Bittner said Kansas University wouldn’t have to worry about either of those scenarios with Raiders defensive end Martin Miller, who made an oral commitment to KU Sunday during his campus visit.

“He can definitely step in and play,” Bittner said. “He’s strong. He understands the game. He plays hard every play. Everyone that’s seen him on film wanted him.”

Miller (6-foot-3, 270 pounds) originally committed to Colorado State and also had offers from Troy State, San Diego State and Fresno State.

Bittner said Miller could have graduated at semester if he had stayed at the California college during the summer, but he went home to Oregon. Instead, he’ll finish in May.

“He’s a good student,” Bittner said. “He’s very close to graduating. His grades are up there. He’s over a B average. He’s done a good job in the classroom.”

Bittner also coached former KU defensive end Reggie Curry (6-2, 245), who was a senior starter for the Jayhawks last season.

How do the defensive ends compare?

“Martin’s bigger,” Bittner said.

In fact, some schools tried to recruit Miller as a tackle. The sophomore told rivals.com one of the deciding factors in picking Kansas was that coaches told him they wanted him to play end at KU.

“He definitely wants to stay outside,” Bittner said. “He likes to pass rush. Quite frankly, I I think he could play either one, but we didn’t need him inside.

“He’s an excellent athlete. He still has some growing to do. He’s gotten bigger since the start of the season. He uses his hands well. He’s very quick. He’ll be an excellent player for them.”

Miller was one of three players who made oral commitments during the weekend. Miami Edison High linebacker Brouce Mompremier (6-0, 210) changed his commitment from South Florida to KU, and punter Kyle Tucker (6-1, 194) of Cinco Ranch High in Katy, Texas, also committed.

KU has 19 known commitments heading into the national signing day Feb. 4. Coach Mark Mangino has said he would like to sign a total of 21 or 22 players.