Iowa Three-Sport Athlete Commits to Minnesota's 2027 Recruiting Class

Will Clausen, a 6-foot-5, 280-pound offensive lineman, is the first O-line commit in the Gophers' 2027 class.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 5:38pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a football offensive line broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes in the colors of the Minnesota Golden Gophers.Minnesota's offensive line of the future takes shape with the commitment of Iowa standout Will Clausen.Plymouth Today

The University of Minnesota football program has landed a commitment from Iowa offensive lineman Will Clausen for its 2027 recruiting class. Clausen, a three-sport athlete at Prairie High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, held offers from several top programs including Baylor, Kansas, and Oklahoma State before choosing to join the Gophers.

Why it matters

Minnesota's 2027 recruiting class is already ranked 15th nationally, and Clausen's commitment fills a key need on the offensive line as the Gophers look to continue building a strong roster for the future. His addition is an important early win for the program on the recruiting trail.

The details

Standing at 6-foot-5 and 280 pounds, Clausen is an impressive wrestler and track & field competitor in addition to his football skills. He was offered by Minnesota on February 22 and made an unofficial visit to campus this past weekend before deciding to commit. Clausen is the 10th player to join the Gophers' 2027 recruiting class.

  • Clausen was offered a scholarship by Minnesota on February 22, 2026.
  • Clausen made an unofficial visit to the University of Minnesota campus this past weekend.

The players

Will Clausen

A three-sport athlete at Prairie High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, who has committed to play offensive line for the University of Minnesota's 2027 recruiting class.

Tony Liebert

A reporter who covers Minnesota Gophers football recruiting for Sports Illustrated.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Excited to announce my commitment to the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Row The Boat! Ski-U-Mah!”

— Will Clausen, Committed 2027 Offensive Lineman

What’s next

The Gophers will look to continue building momentum on the recruiting trail as they prepare for their annual summer splash official visit weekend.

The takeaway

Minnesota's 2027 recruiting class is shaping up to be another strong one for the program, with the addition of the versatile and talented offensive lineman Will Clausen serving as an important early commitment.