Northern Iowa Boasts One Of Top FCS Recruiting Classes In Nation

Northern Iowa routinely puts one of the top FCS teams on the field, so it's not surprising that a good crop of recruits would follow that success. Not only do the Panthers win games, they produce professional level talent–as defensive back Deiondre' Hall is proving right now as he prepares for the Senior Bowl.

Marcel Minniefield is one of those guys who has seen the success of both the program and in how it helps people move on. He watched former UNI running back David Johnson score a TD last weekend in the NFC Championship, he's well aware of Hall's story, and everybody knows the story of Kurt Warner and his UNI experience.

Yes, these things are on the mind of the articulate Minniefield–who is rated the top prospect so far in the UNI class.

"I believe that making it to the NFL is difficult at any level, but to have multiple players in the NFL right now speaks volumes about any program," Minniefield told HERO Sports. "It makes you feel proud, knowing that not only has UNI had success in their league, but at the professional level as well."

Minniefield also loves the coaching staff UNI has in place. He's absolutely stoked to play under former NFL defensive lineman Bryce Paup. And he's also excited about playing alongside fellow D-lineman like 3-star end Desmond Chapple of Illinois and 6-foot-6 Elerson Smith out of Minnesota. Kansas state player of the year Christian Jegen also is a UNI recruit, though other programs are still working on the 6-foot-3 wide receiver. Or how about 6-foot-4 receiver Isaiah Weston, considered a 3-star prospect by one entity.

"I think UNI has been and still is a successful program, and they've been a contender for the national championship each year and I believe that won't change," Minniefield said. "Hopefully myself and the rest of my fellow recruits can push them to win a championship. The conference (Missouri Valley) is the best in Division I-AA, and I believe it'll be tough, but I believe that after training with our coaching staff, we will be prepared."

Here's a look at Northern Iowa's class so far, as well as HERO Sports could verify it (NCAA rules prohibit schools from discussing their recruits until they sign letters of intent, so they can't provide lists)