Logan Rudolph commits to Clemson with unusual Twitter video

Clemson flexed its in-state recruiting muscle Friday night with a commitment from defensive end Logan Rudolph of Northwestern High.

After going out of state for their first nine commitments of the 2017 class, the Tigers made their first local take a big one. Rudolph (6-4, 225) holds 40 or so offers from the likes of South Carolina, Notre Dame, Oklahoma State, North Carolina, Auburn, Florida, Miami, Florida State, Tennessee, Michigan, Georgia, Nebraska and Alabama.

Rudolph announced his pledge via a Twitter video of him shirtless and chopping wood.

Clemson was later than others in getting to this party, but when the Tigers arrived they changed Rudolph’s thinking. USC appeared to be in good shape with him after he visited in late January. The Gamecocks were recruiting him hard and in touch with him daily, he said then. As late as Feb. 22, Rudolph said he had not heard from Clemson since last football season.

Clemson’s approach changed when Rudolph’s former coach Kyle Richardson took a job on Dabo Swinney’s staff in mid-March. Rudolph visited Clemson in early April and was offered then, and though he never publicly disclosed what was on his mind, he obviously moved the Tigers to the top of his list.

“I can’t tell you what moved him in that direction,” said Northwestern coach David Pierce. “I know he had several great choices and had it boiled down to two or three. What moved him in that direction? I hope it’s because it’s a great decision for him and his family. It’s in-state and I believe Clemson loved him. I’d have to say it’s a good fit for him.”

Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables was by the school earlier this week, and according to Pierce, he sees a player who can fit right in with what he likes to do with his defense.

“I can tell you what every likes about Logan, they love his motor,” he said. “The young man has a will and a drive and speed off the ball. I’m sure he’ll fit in great there with the defensive linemen and the linebacker play they have at Clemson. The kid has incredible speed off the ball.”

Last season Rudolph totaled 60 tackles with 15 sacks, 13 quarterback pressures and 10 tackles for loss. He said earlier this year it is his plan to graduate early.

This story was originally published May 6, 2016 at 10:30 PM.