Conner is a Panther
Three-star defensive end James Conner of Erie (Pa.) McDowell has long considered Pittsburgh at the top of his list and earlier today he decided to end his recruiting process with a commitment.
"I heard another defensive end committed and I didn't want to risk them maybe pulling my offer," said Conner. "I just wanted to always have them to rely on."
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Conner informed the staff of his decision earlier today.
"I told Coach Rudolph, the tight end's coach who recruits my area, and I also talked to Coach Breck, the defensive line coach," said Conner. "They were going crazy over the phone. They were excited."
There were a number of reasons that put Pittsburgh over the top.
"Just my relationship with the coaches, it's close to home and they're on the rise," said Conner, who is 6-foot-2 and 232-pounds.
Conner's family is also happy about his decision.
"They're excited," he said. "My mom is happy with the choice and so are my brothers."
Now that his process is concluded, Conner plans to concentrate on his academics and his senior season, which begins on August 31st against Mentor High School.
Conner, who also had offers from Bowling Green, Eastern Michigan, Ohio University, Toledo and Youngstown State, also plans to attend a couple of games this fall before he schedules his official visit.