Penn State’s class of 2016 commitments have all been performing at high levels during their respective playoff runs, but one name stands out out above the rest. Ellison Jordan’s name has been a popular one lately, as he and his team just continue to win.

The Baltimore native, a 6’0”, 270 lb. defensive tackle is one of the most highly recruited defensive linemen in the country. He’s rated as a four-star prospect by each of the four major recruiting services, and was given his highest rating by Scout, which ranked him as the No. 62 player in the class. His commitment to Penn State in June was crucial, as it came at a stressful period where there was concern regarding the class’ defensive linemen. Also, as a highly rated Maryland recruit, it was an important step in dispelling the myth that is “The Movement” of Maryland recruits attending the University of Maryland. Jordan has an extensive list of offers, highlighted by Michigan State, Georgia Tech, North Carolina, and West Virginia.

Jordan’s game at defensive tackle is swift and strong. In watching his highlight tapes, it’s evident that James Franklin and his staff are recruiting players in the mold of current defensive stars Austin Johnson and Anthony Zettel. His speed is the defining characteristic in his game, as he gets off the line quickly and beats his man with the same vigor. This has been a big reason for his school’s success. His soon-to-be alma mater, the Gilman School, was unranked when it won the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association’s championship this past week. The victory propelled the team into USA Today’s Super 25 rankings, placing the school at No. 22.

Not only will Jordan leave the team on a high note with a strong ranking, but he’ll also leave with an important accolade in hand. He set the Gilman School’s record for career sacks, posting 14 of them this year as part of a monster season that included three forced fumbles and a defensive score. The record may seem like a small feat, but considering the history of the football program (the school lays claim to 14 MIAA titles and produced multiple NFL players), Jordan’s record should only point to future success.

But Jordan wasn’t satisfied with simply winning a title and setting a record. He was selected to the Under Armour All-American team. Upon receiving his jersey in a ceremony at his high school, he joined Shane Simmons, Miles Sanders, and Michal Menet as members of the team.

Jordan’s enthusiasm for the game and for Penn State will make him a valuable addition in the coming years. With the departures of Zettel, Johnson, and Nassib impending — Johnson being a year down the road pending a possible early entrance into the NFL Draft — commitments from defensive linemen of his caliber are crucial to the team’s future success.