The Gophers football team is seeking to round out its recruiting class with junior college players, and the first reward came Wednesday.
Three-star defensive tackle Merrick Jackson of Iowa Western Community College announced he would be a part of Minnesota's 2016 recruiting class.
Jackson, who is 6 feet 2 and 320 pounds, said his recruitment came down to Iowa State and Minnesota.
"But after having a visit with Coach (Jeff) Phelps and after talking to my family friends and former coaches I've decided to take my talents to Minnesota!" Jackson said in a message on Twitter.