Jackson Christian’s Kelsey Rose, a 6-foot-4, 250-pound defensive lineman, has committed to play football at the University of Minnesota.

Rose, a senior two-way player for the Eagles, had 65 tackles – 7.5 that resulted in a loss, and four quarterback sacks on the defensive side of the ball.

Offensively, he added 19 receptions for 302 yards and two touchdowns as a receiver.

“Kelsey is one of the most gifted young athletes we’ve had in our program,” Darby Palmer said. “Physically, he’s a rare combination of size, length, strength, and athleticism. He’s continued to grow into his frame and has developed into a true defensive end prospect with tremendous upside.”

Palmer, the head football coach at Jackson Christian, said Rose is special because he’s more than a football player.

“He’s a multi-sport athlete who has excelled in football and basketball, and that competitiveness shows up every day,” Palmer said. “Off the field, Kelsey is a high-character young man who represents his family, our school, and our football program the right way. He’s respected by his teammates, coaches, and teachers. He’s humble, coachable, and works extremely hard.”

(PHOTO: Kelsey Rose, right, with Steve Stanard, University of Minnesota, rush ends coach)