Paulsen Switches Lanes to Illinois

Ryan Paulsen, a top-tier 2027 defensive lineman from Iowa, flipped his commitment from Minnesota to Illinois just days before his official visit, sending shockwaves through the Gophers’ recruiting plans. Standing 6-foot-4 and packing 230 pounds, Paulsen dominated his junior season with 17 tackles for loss and 5 sacks — and his recruitment exploded this spring after just one offer before April. Schools like Illinois, Kansas, and Wisconsin jumped in, but Minnesota had already extended an offer and hosted him back in April. Though not nationally ranked, Paulsen is a fast-rising prospect, and his switch leaves Minnesota’s visitor list thinner — especially after losing Ma’atoe Moe to Nebraska. But don’t panic: recruiting is a numbers game, and Minnesota still has a strong pipeline. Big names like Cameron Saunders (decision Tuesday), Dallas Ward, Lemani Fehoko, and Cam Aime are still on deck — any of them could seal the deal. The 2027 class? Far from done. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/88bdaf2b11afd95f