The Frogs continue to build from the inside out this recruiting season with the commitment of Denton Guyer offensive lineman John Lanz IV, a 6’4” 286 beast. Lanz is the third offensive lineman to commit in the class of 2018, choosing the Frogs over 13 other offers including Colorado, Baylor, Arizona State, and Texas Tech. He was also offered by Purdue, a University the Frogs will welcome to Fort Worth in approximately 100 years.
— John Lanz IV (@JohnLanz7) May 5, 2017
Rated a three star prospect, Lanz is the type of player that could see his profile rise as a senior. He runs a verified 5.27 40 yard dash, and posts impressive numbers in both the shuttle and vertical jump, posting a 4.94 in the former and a 29.7” in the latter. An absolute mauler in the middle, Lanz is capable of pancaking a defensive lineman or moving them at will when called upon. He can really seal the edge in the run game, and has excellent footwork in pass pro. With big, strong hands and a solid base, he has a chance to be a big time player for a unit that graduates four of five starters after the coming season. While he lists himself as a left guard, he is seen as a center prospect as well, which is what 247 has him as. He joins guards Esteban Avila out of South Grand Prairie and Devin Phillips from Neville as offensive linemen commits in the class of 2018.
Recruited by new offensive line coach Chris Thomsen, Lanz sited location and the opportunity to play close to his family and friends as key reason for his choice. Additionally, the potential of early playing time was likely a lure, as you don’t have to look far down the depth chart to see that there will be plenty of holes to fill.
Lanz rated out as a top 12 player at his position and a top 100 player overall in the state. He is a huge pickup for TCU, and the kind of player that the Frogs need to build around to allow their young QBs and WRs to excel. It also probably helps top target Justin Rogers feel confident about the type of players that could be protecting him, should he pick TCU on May 31st, when he is scheduled to announce his commitment.
Congrats to John and welcome to the Frog Fam!