Noah Shannon commits to Minnesota

Oswego (Ill.) three-star defensive tackle Noah Shannon committed to the Gophers today on an unofficial visit. Shannon chose Minnesota over offers from Arkansas, Indiana, Duke, Iowa, Iowa State, Kansas State, Michigan State, Missouri, Purdue, Rutgers, Syracuse, and Virginia.

"After my visit today at the University of Minnesota, and sitting down and talking with my family, I have decided I am furthering my education and athletic career for the next four years at the University of Minnesota," he wrote on Twitter. "I would like to thank my family, Coach Cooney, and Coach Staffeldt for helping me through this process. I would also like to thank Coach Fleck and the Minnesota coaching staff for giving me the opportunity to play for them. I'm 100% committed to the University of Minnesota! #RTB #ELITE18"

Shannon spoke highly of PJ Fleck and the Minnesota staff in a February in a February interview with The Gopher Report.

"They know what it takes and want to take this Minnesota program to newer and better heights."

The high three-star will come to Minnesota already familiar with the Huff twins, 2017 wide receiver commit Christopher Autumn-Bell, and fellow Chicago area defensive tackle commit Elijah Teague.

"When I was a freshman I played against the Huff twins when they were at Bolingbrook, and I know Chris Bell from Bishop McNamara who signed with them as well."

Shannon finished his junior season with 56 tackles, 13 TFL, 3.5 sacks, and five forced fumbles this past year.

With Shannon, Tyrik Henderson, and Elijah Teague, the Gophers now have commits from three of Illinois' top eight players.