New Purdue defensive commitment can play multiple spots
Alabama defensive lineman/linebacker Kelvin Stokes Jr. is second #Purdue commit of the day, committing during a weekend unofficial visit, as the Boilermaker coaching staff added another piece to a class it hopes will help kickstart its pass-rush.
The 6-foot-3, 245-pounder chose Purdue over offers from Southern Miss, Troy, Army and others and interest from several SEC programs.
"They said they like how I'm quick and explosive, how fast I get off the ball," Stokes said, "and how I can play on the defensive line or as a (standup linebacker)."
Stokes said he does expect a linebacker-type pass-rushing role as Purdue looks to implement hybrid-type edge rushers into a defense that could use more bite in that phase of the game.
Playing different roles for his Stanhope Elmore team in Millbrook, Ala., Stokes recorded more than 100 tackles, with six sacks, five interceptions, three forced fumbles and seven tackles for loss.
He was offered by Purdue in the spring, then was compelled to commit during his visit this weekend.
"I liked the school a lot," he said. "Everything has to do with academics and I know it's a top-tier university. I like how they put academics even ahead of (football)."
Stokes joins Florida's Connor Parks and Willie Lane as edge-rushing prospects committed for the 2018 class.
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