SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Utes’ defensive line has received a talented prospect that will remain in the state of Utah in Corner Canyon star defensive end Van Fillinger.

Fillinger is a 6’3.5, 250 lbs. defensive end from Draper, Utah. He is the eighth highest rated defensive end in the country and the second best prospect from the state of Utah. Fillinger originally committed to Texas on July 18, 2019 before changing his mind on December 1, 2019 after coaching staff changes occurred at Texas. He has been invited to play in both the All-American Bowl and the Polynesian Bowl.

Van Fillinger is signing with Utah. @van_filli #GoUtes #NSD20 pic.twitter.com/G3VLWCoeB6

— KSL Sports (@kslsports) December 18, 2019

He received offers from Texas, Arizona State, Boise State, California, Colorado, Kansas State, Liberty, LSU, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio State, Oregon, Tennessee, UCLA, USC, Utah State, Vanderbilt, Virginia Tech and Washington.

Here is what Utah defensive line coach Lewis Powell said about Fillinger.

“Big Bad Van.”

Hear why @CoachPowell99 thinks @van_filli is the perfect addition to Utah’s D Line. pic.twitter.com/GSCmfklvIk

— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) December 18, 2019