Hawkeyes land first 2018 commit

The first Class of 2018 commitment is in for the Iowa Hawkeyes. Wisconsin outside linebacker Mike Bruner made the call tonight one day after the 6-foot-3, 215-pound junior made a trip to Iowa City for a game day visit with the Hawkeyes.

"After multiple visits and many conversations with the coaching staff, I am extremely happy to announce that I will be continuing my academic and athletic career at the University of Iowa," said Bruner in a statement. "I look forward to bringing my talent to the Hawkeyes to help them succeed in winning national championships."

Saturday marked Bruner's fourth visit of the year to Iowa as he has continued to build his relationship with the coaching staff ever since impressing them at camp in June. Shortly after that, the Hawkeyes were the first to offer the Class of 2018 prospect when he returned in July, and then he has made two game day visits this season.

"I really feel like I am at home when I'm in Iowa City," Bruner said. "After my visit, I've been doing a lot of thinking and realized Iowa has everything that I need to be successful. The coaching staff is great, the players are great, and the overall sense of family makes me feel even better about Iowa."

Along with Iowa, Bruner had a scholarship offer from Iowa State and interest from Wisconsin, Notre Dame, Northwestern, and Michigan, among others. The Wisconsin native felt there was no need to wait around, however, and is excited to be Iowa's first commit in the Class of 2018.

"It feels great to be the first commit," said Bruner. "It's a decision I will look back on in five years and realize it was the best choice of my life."

Bruner, who attends Homestead High School, has 60 tackles, 15 TFL, and 6 sacks through 10 games this season.