Wisconsin's defensive line class was shaping up to be one of, if not THE most highly touted in school history. However, the departure of Bret Bielema to Arkansas threw a monkey wrench into the plans. One of the biggest names on the Badgers board, Alec James, decided to at least do a little looking around. However, on Wednesday morning James made it clear that he will be sticking with his commitment to Wisconsin.
He is a key component to this year's class and projects as possibly a defensive end or a linebacker depending on how his 6'4" and 225lbs. frame. James had received in-home visits and was strongly considering offers from both rival Michigan State and Pac-12 Oregon before deciding to stick with his original commitment.
The reasoning behind it? According to multiple reports it's because he thought that there was something special building at Wisconsin under head coach Gary Andersen.
"It's the right place for me and I think Andersen (Head Coach Gary Andersen) has something special going on," James said to Badger247.
One of the more important aspects of this signing is apparently the job Ben Strickland, a former Brookfield Central star, did in keeping and selling James on staying with his original commitment was what made the biggest difference.
Strickland has been sited by quite a few prospects, along with Thomas Hammock, as the main reason they stuck with their commitments during the rocky times and were then further sold once they had a chance to meet coach Andersen in person or via phone.
This re-commitment, if you can call it that, is just yet another signal of how strong a recruiter Andersen is and is perhaps just the beginnings of what could be a crazy week ahead as the new class fills out with commitments to the liking of the new staff. Names to watch include Tanner McEvoy (Juco QB) and five star running back Alex Collins (South Plantation HS, Ft. Lauderdale, FL) amongst a bevy of potential Juco defensive backs as well.
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