Virginia football lands 20th commitment of 2018 recruiting class with Potomac Falls linebacker Grant Misch

The Virginia Cavaliers picked their recruiting momentum back up on Wednesday, as in-state linebacker Grant Misch committed to the Hoos.

Misch has yet to pick up a rating from most of the major services, but held Power Five offers from Maryland, West Virginia, Wake Forest, and Rutgers, with Temple, Navy, Air Force, and the Ivy League also in hot pursuit. At 6’4 and 235 pounds, Misch is quite a bit sturdier than the other linebackers in the class so far, suggesting he may have a future on the interior of the UVA defense (or even defensive end).

The first thing that jumps off the film is that Misch is a big kid. And he uses that size to his advantage. He’s a sure tackler in the run game, showing good anticipation and fighting off blocks. He also times blitzes very well, flashing through open gaps to pressure the passer. If Misch also develops more fluidity in pass coverage—quicker hips and more agile feet—he’ll have a good complement to quality hands that are obviously the product of also playing tight end. Look for Misch to play more of a “thunder” role, paired with the “lightning” of a Charles Snowden or Noah Taylor.

Misch is the fifth linebacker to commit in 2018, which probably closes the door on any more LB commits. This would be bad news for Isaiah Spencer, the Gloucester (VA) athlete who had picked up a UVA offer in late June.

Another important note: Misch’s commitment means JoJo White, from Landstown, is no longer the lone Virginian in the 2018 class.

Welcome to UVA, Grant!