DE Porcher IV decommits from Huskers

Nebraska's 2017 recruiting class took a hit on Monday afternoon as Orlando (Fla.) Dr. Phillips defensive end Robert Porcher IV decommitted from the Huskers.

The 6-foot-3, 250-pound prospect announced he was parting ways with NU and opening up his recruitment via Twitter. He cited the inability of his family to attend his collegiate games as a main reason for his decision.

"I've been so blessed to play my football career to this point in front of my family, who support me at every game," Porcher IV stated. "I recently realized that I'm not okay with the thought of my family not being close enough to come to my games."

Porcher IV just capped off an impressive senior season in which he broke Dr. Phillips' all-time career sack record. He also helped lead his team to a 12-3 record and an appearance in the Florida 8A state championship game this past weekend. His play this fall sparked a rise in the recruiting rankings from a two-star to a four-star.

The No. 10 ranked defensive end has taken official visits to Nebraska and Michigan thus far and has stated in the past that trips to Georgia Tech and Cal among others were being considered.

The loss of Porcher IV hurts the Huskers not only because it has a great need at the position, but the announcement falls on the first day of the NCAA dead period for recruiting.

NU now has 14 known commitments in its 2017 recruiting class including one defensive end in Miami (Fla.) Booker T. Washington four-star Guy Thomas who is fresh off of an official visit to Maryland over the weekend.