Following a big recruiting weekend for Oklahoma, who were hosting four official visitors, the Sooners have picked up their first of what could prove to be several commitments. Several recruiting services, including the best in the biz, are confirming that 6'5" 315 pound JUCO offensive tackle Will Latu has become the 20th member of OU's 2012 class after pledging his commitment during his official visit this weekend.
Prior to the visit, Latu had hinted at the fact a commitment could be possible given how strongly he felt about Oklahoma and his connection with Bruce Kittle. With the news of his commitment, clearly his visit went well enough to convince the big man that Oklahoma offered him the best opportunity among the schools he was considering.
Latu is the #1 JUCO offensive line prospect according to Rivals and the #7 overall JUCO player in the 2012 class. Obviously any team could use an offensive tackle prospect who can come in and start from day one, but Latu fills an especially big need for the Sooners who were forced to start a right tackle last year (Lane Johnson) who originally came to Oklahoma as a quarterback recruit.
Latu has the size and footwork to play either left or right tackle, but will likely play on the right side for the Sooners which would allow them to slide the talented Daryl Williams over to left tackle. In addition to his versatility, what Latu also brings to this OU o-line is a nasty streak that, outside of Adam Shead who emerged last year, this unit has been sorely missing for several years. The idea of Latu, at tackle, and Shead, at guard, lined up next to each other should make both the stable of OU running backs and OU fans positively giddy.
The last time OU dipped into the JUCO ranks for a starting offensive tackle, it produced a two year starter and a 2nd round NFL draft pick in Phil Loadholt. If Latu could provide a similar end result, and many believe he's a future NFL caliber player, his commitment this weekend could prove to be a very significant addition.
Welcome to Sooner Nation Will!
[UPDATE] - Also just wanted to add this. Should make you all happy.
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