2024 Countdown to IUFB Kickoff: 91 Days (Daniel Ndukwe)

Written by T.J. Inman

#91 – Daniel Ndukwe

Height: 6’3”

Weight: 225 pounds

Hometown: Lithonia, Georgia (Arabia Mountain High School)

Class/Position: Freshman/Defensive Line

Curt Cignetti’s first recruiting class with the Indiana Hoosiers included a mix of recruits that were committed to Tom Allen and his staff and recruits that flipped to IU after being committed to his staff at James Madison University. One of the earlier flips from JMU was Daniel Ndukwe, a Georgia native that will be a defensive lineman for the Hoosiers. Ndukwe starred as a defensive end at Arabia Mountain High School and was a three-star prospect. 

At 6’3” but only 225 pounds, Ndukwe is largely expected to be a redshirt candidate for the 2024 season but he did enroll early at IU and participated in spring practices. Ndukwe is going to be an edge defender that IU is hoping turns into a reliable one-on-one pass rusher. He spoke to 247sports after committing to Indiana about his excitement to follow Coach Cignetti to the Big Ten.

“What makes Indiana special is the opportunity for a fresh start in a big conference with coaches I trust,” Ndukwe said. “The energy this staff is bringing to the building is contagious. Coach Cig emphasized getting the right guys on the bus. He wants to win early and with the right people. My role in this defense will be pass rushing off the edge and dropping into coverage.”

Daniel Ndukwe needs to add weight to his frame in order to make an impact in the Big Ten but he has the quickness and length to build on that could eventually turn into a good piece for the Hoosiers.

The Hoosier Huddle Countdown to Kickoff continues each and every day so be sure to check back often for the latest profile piece!