RECRUITING: Cyclones land commitment from Ohio DE

Rebuilding the defensive front has been one of Matt Campbell’s top priorities since taking over at Iowa State and that process took another step forward on Sunday.

Three-star Ohio defensive end Dan Sichterman tweeted his commitment to Iowa State after taking a visit to Ames over the weekend.

“What made me pull the trigger on my commitment is the people there,” Sichterman told Cyclone Fanatic in a text message on Sunday. “Coach Campbell, along with his staff are incredible. We have been able to develop a great relationship and they really made me feel comfortable over my visit.”

Sichterman, who is rated as the No. 80 strong-side defensive end in the 2017 class by 247 Composite, came into the weekend committed to Ball State. The 6-foot-3-inch, 235-pound prospect also holds offers from Air Force, Connecticut and a handful of schools at the FCS level.

“I would describe myself as having a very high motor, and I would say I have the ability to make big plays,” Sichterman said. “I think I am a leader that helps the others around me to achieve great things.”

He’s the Cyclones’ fifth high school defensive lineman commit in the 2017 class joining Texas defensive end Deven Lamp, Kansas defensive end Angel Dominguez, Mississippi defensive end Cordarrius Bailey and Iowa defensive end John Nagel.

Iowa State now has 20 commits in their 2017 class that ranks as one of the best in school history.

“The atmosphere and the game exceeded my expectations,” Sichterman said about his visit. “The fan support and general vibe around the stadium was something I had never seen before.”