Wisconsin transfer defensive lineman Darian Varner commits to Cincinnati

by Ryan Roberts

Following George Gumbs' decision to back off his commitment to Cincinnati and flip to Florida, the Bearcats needed to add more depth to their defensive line.

Walt Stewart and the Bearcats' coaching staff received word early Sunday morning that Wisconsin defensive lineman Darian Varner had committed to Cincinnati.

 

 

Varner was a 1st team All AAC selection in 2022 at Temple and appeared in 11 games during his one season with the Wisconsin Badgers, recording five tackles, two pressures, 1.5 TFLs, and a fumble recovery in 122 total snaps. 

During his 2022 season at Temple, Varner was voted a team captain and finished the season ranked t-16th in the nation and t-2nd in the AAC in sacks per game with 0.75. His 7.5 total sacks and 12.5 TFL ranked as the second most on the team for the season.

 At 6'3 275 lbs, Varner has the size to play on the interior of the defense as well as the athleticism to play out on the edge in a similar role that we saw Malik Vann play this past season. His strength, explosion off the ball, and athleticism should provide a boost to the pass rush.

 

 

Varner will be immediately eligible following the NCAA's rule change to allow two-time transfers to play right away. 

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

Back to UC Sports