A Defensive Recruiting Wish List for 2017

The Cowboys have gotten off to a pretty decent start on the defensive side of the ball for 2017, gaining commitments from safety Ty Thomas, linebacker Brendon Vaughn, and defensive tackle Brendon Evers. But there’s still just over 10 months until national signing day, so there’s plenty of remaining targets on the board. Here’s a look at some of the top targets for the Pokes on my wish list.

Isaiah Thomas – Defensive End

Thomas is a big-time defensive end from Tulsa Memorial who plays defensive end and hybrid linebacker, who also has offers from OU, Texas A&M and many others. He’s expected to be on campus Monday, which will be a chance to take advantage of some prime recruiting time. But before his trip to Stillwater, he’ll be down in Norman where the Sooners are sweeping the state on the recruiting trail. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound end will have his pick of the litter when he makes his decision, and the Cowboys will have to make a big impression this week. I think the Sooners are leading his recruitment at the moment.

Damion Daniels – Defensive Tackle

The name should be familiar to OSU fans by now. Damion, the younger brother of Darrion “Sugar Loaf” Daniels, is a big-time defensive tackle who has been on the Pokes radar for over a year now. He has offers from Michigan, LSU, Texas A&M, Arkansas, Baylor, and plenty more (20 altogether). With Darrion getting some serious playing time as a freshman, it’s sure to help Damion make a decision. If he wants early playing time, there’s a good chance it could happen in Stillwater – especially with his 6-1, 315-pound frame one that is hard to come by as a youngster. And that’s part of what the pitch to Daniels will likely consist of.

Logan Rudolph – Defensive End

Another very familiar name on the list. It’s the year of the younger brother. Logan is just as big a prospect as Damion is along the defensive line. Rudolph had a monster junior season at defensive end, and has his choice of school now. He has offers from Alabama, North Carolina, Arizona State, and the list goes on … 38 in all! Obviously the connection with Mason being the starting quarterback in town has to help, but this would be a major feat for Joe Bob Clements if he can lure as big a prospect as Logan.

Riko Jeffers – Linebacker

Jeffers is a recent offer from Sachse, Texas, who has offers from SMU, Houston, and several other schools. He’s pretty mum on his recruitment but, if the Texas schools don’t pay him as much attention as the Cowboys have, I think they could be in good shape to steal a talented prospect from the talent rich school of Sachse.

If you haven’t already, check out the offensive recruiting wish list here.