In-state 4-star EDGE Daeden Hopkins locks in Missouri official visit

Still looking for its first commitment of the 2025 recruiting cycle, Missouri hopes to build off momentum in the 2024 class along the defensive line.

Hermann (Mo.) four-star EDGE Daeden Hopkins has scheduled an official visit to Missouri, he announced on social media. He will visit Columbia from June 21-23.

Hopkins is the nation’s No. 342 overall prospect and No. 31 EDGE in the 2025 cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking — a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

On3 rates Hopkins higher than the other major recruiting services. He ranks No. 291 overall, No. 28 among edge rusher and No. 3 in Missouri in the 2025 On300.

Defensive line recruiting in the 2024 class

Eliah Drinkwitz’s staff in Columbia pulled in a number of stars along the defensive line in the 2024 cycle. Signees included Lee’s Summit (Mo.) North Five-Star Plus+ EDGE Williams Nwaneri, Hudson (Fla.) four-star defensive lineman Elias Williams and Madison (Ala.) James Clemens four-star EDGE Jaylen Brown.

Nwaneri headlined a Missouri class that ranked inside the top 25 nationally in the 2024 On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings.

“What made me feel good about Missouri was comfortability, relationships with the coaching staff and the people there,” Nwaneri told On3. “It has a feeling like somewhere close that I could go and fit in. Staying home is extremely big for me. As a child I watched Missouri, I get to stay home and we can start something new. Having a chance to be that hometown hero and starting a trend at Missouri played into my decision.”

More on those relationships:

“Coach Peoples and Coach Drink were both really involved in recruiting me,” Nwaneri said. “I have great relationships with them both. Their message was always to stay home, be the guy and go where you are needed, not wanted. They want me to come in and be a huge impact for the program.”