Jalen Lawrence commits to Georgia State Football

The Georgia State Panthers feel much better about their future now after landing Jalen Lawrence as a top recruit on Friday night.

Lawrence had offers from many big-name schools including Texas Tech, Middle Tennessee State, Troy and Colorado State, but he shunned them to play with Georgia State. The 6'1, 265-pound defensive tackle out of Westside High School is a huge find for the Panthers and could potentially be a stalwart for years on their defensive front.

Lawrence's father, Jeff, said staying close to home was a big part of his choice, according to ajc.com.

"Well, location played a part in that," the elder Lawrence said. "Georgia State also offered a good chance to play, along with the opportunity to be part of something special as they build the program."

Another reason for Lawrence going to play for the Panthers was the coaching staff, whom both he and his father feel very comfortable with.

"At Georgia State, the coaches are friendly and they talked straight up," Jeff Lawrence said. "They said ‘This is what we have to offer. We know other schools are looking at you, but this is what we have to offer.’

Lawrence is the ninth recruit that Gerogia State has committed for its 2013 class to this point.