Alcorn State University signed 17 football players and added three more junior college transfers to complete a defensive heavy recruiting class Wednesday.

The Braves landed four defensive lineman, four defensive backs and two linebackers in an effort to build on next year’s team.

“Our coaching staff did a great going out and getting what we need,” Alcorn coach Fred McNair said. “We feel pretty good about the class, and we have a good group of kids coming in.”

McNair said that due to injuries last season, lineman is what his team needed most.

The Braves also signed three offensive linemen.

“It’s going to help us tremendously,” he said. “The important thing is to build on the depth, and this means a lot.”

Alcorn also added three wide receivers including local standout Juan Anthony Jr. from Wilkinson County High School.

Anthony finished his senior year with 63 receptions for 976 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also returned kickoffs for another 523 yards and two touchdowns earning him recognition as a MHSAA Region 7-3A All-Region First Team member.

“You always want to get the kids from in-state rather than out-of-state,” McNair said. “It helps our fan base.”

Also, the Braves snagged Fred’s nephew, Tim McNair Jr., to shape the receiving core even more.

McNair said that the best thing about this year’s class is each player who was signed has no academic issues, leading to less issues on the field.

“We wanted to get kids who qualified and we able to help us right away,” he said. “We did out homework and got character to fit our mold. What is impressive about the guys is that we won’t have to worry about any eligibility battles.”