For the third year in a row, the player regarded as the top recruit in the country is delaying his signing.

Seantrel Henderson, the manchild tackle from Cretin-Derham Hall High in St. Paul, announced Wednesday that he planned to attend USC. But he has yet to sign his letter of intent.

Henderson will wait until USC appears before an NCAA infractions committee from Feb. 19-21. The school is under investigation for possible rules violations involving the football and basketball programs.

Henderson, who has yet to qualify academically, has until April 1 to sign his letter of intent.

Henderson follows the path blazed by Terrelle Pryor in 2008 and Bryce Brown in 2009. Pryor delayed his college choice in part to concentrate on helping his high school basketball team's quest for a Pennsylvania state championship. He waited until March 19 before announcing that he would sign with Ohio State.

Brown's recruitment was more complicated because it included Brian Butler, his controversial trainer and recruiting adviser. Brown announced for Tennessee on March 15.