Minnesota Football Recruiting: Gophers land a pair of commitments for 2021

I hope you’re wearing sunglasses, because head coach P.J. Fleck and co. are looking to the future with a pair of verbal commitments for the Class of 2021. Illinois prospects (and brothers) Athan and Dino Kaliakmanis have verbally committed to play for the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

The duo committed while on their second unofficial visit to campus this month. Since both were sophomores last fall, neither has been rated yet by any of the internet recruiting services.

Get to know Athan Kaliakmanis

Position: Quarterback
Height: 6’4’’
Weight: 190

Power 5 Scholarship Offers: Iowa, Iowa State, Syracuse, Tennessee, and Virginia Tech

247 Sports Composite Rating: N/A

Scouting Report

As a high school sophomore, Athan completed 64 percent of his passes, finishing the year with 2,084 passing yards and 26 touchdowns. He also added 610 rushing yards and another 11 touchdowns on the ground. From what I’ve heard, Athan is a potential blue-chip prospect if his early commitment to Minnesota does not diminish his buzz. He has the ideal frame, which he’ll obviously need to grow into at 190 lbs. But he is a calm and calculated decision-maker under pressure, with a good arm and the ability to make any throw. Athan will need to continue to develop, which is to be expected at his age, but this could be a huge commitment for Minnesota, if they can hold onto him between now and December of 2020.

Hudl Highlights (Link)

Get to know Dino Kaliakmanis

Position: Wide Receiver
Height: 6’2’’
Weight: 188

Power 5 Scholarship Offers: Kansas

247 Sports Composite Rating: N/A

Scouting Report

As a high school sophomore, Dino hauled in 38 receptions (from his brother) for a total of 610 receiving yards and five touchdowns. He also runs track. It sounds like Dino has made a name for himself on the camp circuit as a solid receiver with all of the necessary skills and a few more years to develop physically. He runs good routes, can make catches in traffic, and has enough speed to make plays after the catch. Dino is very polished for a player his age.

Hudl Highlights (Link)