Michigan scored an important late cycle commitment when 2021 Rivals250 defensive lineman George Rooks pulled the trigger and gave the Wolverines a verbal pledge on Wednesday.

The 6-foot-4, 260-pounder from Jersey City (N.J.) St. Peter's Prep committed to Michigan over fellow finalists Boston College and Penn State.

Rooks is the 21st member of Michigan’s 2021 recruiting class.

Here are some quick takes on what Rooks' commitment means for the Wolverines.

1. Let's start with the obvious. Michigan desperately needed to close with a defensive tackle before the end of the cycle. Only having two-star Dominick Giudice in the fold as a three-tech was not going to cut it. Now, the Wolverines have their man in Rooks. While listed as a strong-side defensive end at 260 pounds, Rooks is up to 270 and has the frame to add 20-25 more pounds. He will be a three-tech — or at least that's the plan — and will also provide flexibility along the defensive line. Rooks played multiple spots at the high school level.