The Sioux have recently received a commitment from junior college defensive lineman Euylan (EJ) Welch. Welch, from Mesabi Range CTC in Minnesota, goes 6’2″ 285 and was an all-conference and honorable mention all-american performer at Mesabi Range. The Biwabik, MN native should be ready to go next semester for spring ball.
Welch appears to have very good feet and a quick burst off the line of scrimmage to go with his massive size. He was truly a one-man wrecking crew in the MCCC, ending the season with 6 sacks and 16 TFL’s. Welch was also a very good basketball player in high school for Mesabi East and it has translated to the football field as he has good agility for a big man. On top of that, he played basketball for Mesabi Range CTC last season, averaging 9 pts and 5 rebs per game.
He should provide some valuable minutes along the defensive line with the loss of Broc Bellmore and we fully expect him to fight for a starting spot during spring ball. Learning to take on double teams and play the run consistently in a 3-4 defense will be key to his success. He will be very valuable if he can learn to play both the DE (5 technique) and the nose guard position in the 3-4 to create depth along the defensive line. We think he definitely has the size, athleticism and skill to play both positions – a rare combination.
