James Madison EDGE Isaac Ukwu commits to Ole Miss over Auburn and Missouri
Ole Miss missed out on a big target on Wednesday but Lane Kiffin and Co. quickly made up for it on Thursday. James Madison EDGE Isaac Ukwu announced his commitment to the Rebels over Auburn and Missouri, giving Randall Joyner a dynamic pass rusher to go opposite Jared Ivey.
The last two seasons, Ukwu made 83 tackles, 27 tackles for loss, 16.5 sacks, defended five passes and forced three fumbles. He sat out the 2019 and 2020 seasons with injuries.
The First Team All-Sun Belt Conference selection from Upper Marlboro, Md., was also a part of the MPSSAA 4A First Team All-State as a junior and senior in high school. Ukwu helped Dr. Henry Wise (Md.) win the 4A state championship in 2016 with a perfect 14-0 record.
The 6-foot-3, 260 pound prospect took official visits to Auburn, Ole Miss and Missouri but it was his connection with Joyner and defensive coordinator Pete Golding which made the difference.
Ole Miss has a talented group of defensive linemen. But depth is always needed. Isaac Ukwu could be another EDGE defender for the Rebels.
Jared Ivey became a difference maker last year after breaking into the two-deep. The 6-foot-5, 265 pound prospect finished the 2022 season with 37 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. Now he is being counted on as a leader in the room and a cornerstone member of Pete Golding‘s defense.
No one questions Jeremiah Pegues‘ athleticism or effort but another year learning under Joyner and analyst Brandon Deaderick should provide some healthy returns. He should be a handful in the middle alongside NC State transfer, Joshua Harris.
James Madison defensive lineman Isaac Ukwu chases down the quarterback in a game on Oct. 23, 2021. (William Bretzger / USA TODAY Sports)
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