Bears' D Picks up a Big Addition in Cathedral DT Ashton Sanders

The Bears picked up one of the top defensive targets today with the announcement via Instagram live videa that 6-2/315 Cathedral (Los Angeles, CA) High School DT Ashton Sanders‍ chose Cal over finalist Wisconsin for his commitment.

The commitment follows two weeks after his official visit that only reaffirmed his strong feelings towards the program. Sanders Twitter videa went relatively viral following the visit.

As a junior, Sanders compiled 36 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 16 QB hurries and 4 sacks in 8 games.

After his prior visit, Sanders talked about his close relationship with the Cal staff and his growing relationship with his future teammates.

“My relationship with the Cal staff is very close,” said Sanders. “Super close. Every person on the staff is really straightforward. What they show and give is what you’re going to get and receive. They’re not just doing that for recruiting. How they treat their recruits is the same way they treat their players.”

Coming up for a practice, Sanders was able to get a good feel for the vibe of the program and how the players interact with each other.

“My interactions with the players were great,” said Sanders. “I got really close with Ricky (Correia). I also got to see campus and how classes are there. I really liked it and how they split up a 200-person class into smaller groups to give more personal teaching. I liked the bay area a lot, too. It’s a pretty low-key city. I love how green it is, too.”

Sanders is clear what he’s looking for beyond being a part of a successful program.

“I’m looking for a brotherhood, somewhere I can fit in very fast,” said Sanders. “Somewhere I can be accepted by a kicker, a quarterback or anyone on the team can be your best friend. I really get that family vibe at Cal and from the coaches.”

Besides Cal and Wisconsin, Sanders also held offers from Notre Dame, Washington, Utah and more.

Sanders joins fellow ‘23 commits CB Sailasa Vadrawale‍, MLB Cade Uluave‍ and safety RJ Jones‍ as part of Cal’s 2023 recruiting class.

Other stories:

4 Star OLB Purchase Impressed by Visit to Cal, Wrapping up OVs this Weekend

https://bearinsider.com/s/3178/bears-stay-local-with-commit-3-in-north-bay-db-vadrawale

http://instagr.am/p/CfNeTRcAhOF