Lucas Niang Makes It Official, Signs with TCU

One of my favorite players in the class of 2016, the 6'6", 300 pound offensive lineman fills a (literally) huge need for TCU next fall, and as such, could see immediate playing time as a freshman. Having lost four starters, and six out of ten players on the two deep, there is an immediate and pressing need to rebuild on the fly for an offense that will need solid protection as they insert a new quarterback as well. A three star recruit according to both Rivals and 247, Niang is a top 50 player at his position and one of the best two or three in the state, depending on who you ask.

Rebuilding doesn't work in the Big XII, you have to retool on the fly. And the success of a young offensive line will be as important, if not more so, than finding Trevone Boykin's heir apparent under center. Niang could certainly be a big part of that, as he has a college-ready body as a true freshman and has flashed the skills necessary to contribute right away.

In addition to his size and strength, he seems like such a likable and high character guy off the field, too. While many schools were late to catch on to his talent - Connecticut isn't exactly a football hotbed - he ended up with 15 Power Five Conference offers and had Miami and Auburn chasing after him down the stretch. He announced for TCU on January 25th - nearly two months after his official visit to Fort Worth and less than a week removed from taking trips to both Auburn and Miami.

With excellent hands, good balance and footwork, and by all accounts a premiere motor, Niang could be a cornerstone along the line for the next four years. Welcome to the #FrogFam, Lucas!