Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell has discussed his desire to put together the best possible 105-man roster since he arrived in Ames more than a year ago. That task requires maintaining a solid walk-on program that brings in under-the-radar prospects capable of competing with the scholarship players.
The process of building the walk-on program led to the Cyclones landing a commitment from Williamsburg (IA) all-state linebacker Derek Greiner on Monday.
100% COMMITTED‼️🚨🌪 🌪🌪#ALLIN #CycloneSquad17 #RaiseTheStandard pic.twitter.com/jSO3aSmSvl
— Derek Greiner (@DGreiner31) January 24, 2017
The 6-foot, 199-pound prospect earned first-team all-state honors after recording a team-high 73.5 tackles, three solo tackles for loss, 14 assisted tackles for loss and two sacks during his senior season while leading Williamsburg to the Class 2A quarterfinals. He was named third-team all-state after making 99.5 tackles as a junior.
Greiner visited Ames several times during the last year including attending the Cyclones’ Junior Day, the spring game, a camp and several games during the regular season. He sealed the deal with his commitment on Monday after a school visit from Campbell.
“He is the man,” Greiner told Cyclone Fanatic about Campbell. “No better leader than him. Him and the rest of the staff are personable and young which I love.”
Greiner picked Iowa State over walk-on opportunities at Iowa and several smaller schools. He will visit Iowa State this weekend then arrive in Ames this summer.
He’s likely to redshirt during his first season on campus but could be a candidate to earn a scholarship at some point during his career.
“I’m someone who will do all the little things and try to perfect my craft,” Greiner said. “I make quick reads and fly to the ball. I’m very good against the run and play passionately.”
