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We told you on Friday things were really heating up leading into National Signing Day on Wednesday. We weren’t kidding. After landing commitments from in state LB Logan Klemp and Michigan S Kaevon Merriweather on Friday, the Hawkeyes were back at it again today.
As we’ve said for some time, the top remaining need is at linebacker and despite having a trio committed in the class, the top priority has been Georgia prospect Jayden McDonald.
Today, the Hawkeyes got some great news as McDonald pledged his commitment to coach Ferentz and Iowa.
Suwanee ✈️Iowa City #Swarm18 #RIPAUNTWHIT #Bravo pic.twitter.com/4Zi0D7Stpf
— Jayden McDonald (@AthKyngJ) February 6, 2018
McDonald is a versatile outside linebacker with good speed and athleticism to either play in coverage or help in run support. He has solid size at 6’1” and 210 pounds, but it’s that athleticism that should have Iowa fans excited. In addition to his coverage abilities, McDonald proved to be a ball hawk last season, scoring four defensive touchdowns.
McDonald chose the Hawkeyes over offers from a number of power five programs. He ultimate decided between Ole Miss, Kansas State, Purdue and Iowa. The visit just a little over a week ago seemed to seal the deal after a visit to Kansas State the weekend before, Purdue the day after and Ole Miss just this last weekend.
With the commitment, Iowa is now likely done in the class of 2018. Only two days away from signing day, Iowa now has 22 commitments (including former 2017 commit Daviyon Nixon). It’s possible they add a surprise commit down the stretch, but doing so would likely mean another departure elsewhere.
Welcome aboard Jayden McDonald!