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While some programs in the Mid-American Conference are still looking to secure their first pledge for the class of 2018 recruiting cycle, Northern Illinois isn’t one of them.
On Sunday evening three-star rated cornerback Devin Haney from Park Hill High School in Kansas City, Missouri became the third prospect to give head coach Rod Carey and the Huskies coaching staff their verbal commitment.
Choosing the Huskies over scholarship offers from FCS programs such as Northwest Missouri State and South Dakota State, there were many aspects in Haney's decision to continue his playing days at NIU.
"The coaching staff of NIU is very real, and what you see is what you get. On my visit I got to pretty much spend the day watching how a spring day goes, and I noticed how much the coaches really do let their players be themselves, but yet still have the team very disciplined. Also although they might not have the biggest or newest facilities, they have everything a player needs to excel and to play on the next level. And with me playing cornerback, I asked if they have sent any DBs to the league. And even in the recent past they have sent a few guys to the league. Also some of the ways they run their coverages is much like how my high school does currently. I honestly just felt really comfortable being there," Haney stated to Hustle Belt.
A taller cornerback at nearly 6-foot-3, Haney, the 88th cornerback and 955th overall recruit in the class of 2018, per the latest 247Sports Composite Rankings, has shown the ability to shut down quality playmakers. As a junior, the future Huskie accounted for nearly 50 total tackles and five interceptions for the 6-4 Trojans.
"[Northern Illinois is getting] A player who is willing to do whatever to make his team better, and a relentless work ethic."