Dion 'Tank' Wilson Explains Why He Committed to Syracuse Before Visiting

Monday saw the world ring in the New Year and saw Syracuse football land two impact transfers as well. While Duce Chestnut announced his decision at the stroke of midnight, defensive tackle Dion "Tank" Wilson made his intentions known Monday night. The commitment, though, came before three scheduled official visits. Wilson was supposed to visit Rutgers, Syracuse and Texas A&M this week before making a decision. Those plans changed. 

"So with me being an older guy, I can really gauge on coaches and they are as people," Wilson said. "How they coach. So with this coaching staff, I know I am going to love this staff and the staff is going to send me to the NFL." 

When asked why Syracuse was the right fit, Wilson's answer was simple and straightforward. 

"It feels like family," Wilson said. "The coaching staff just made me feel like it's home." 

Wilson is listed at 6-5, 300 pounds and has two years of eligibility remaining. He started his career at Arizona. He redshirted as a freshman in 2020, appeared in six games as a reserve in 2021 and then 10 as a reserve in 2022 before transferring to New Mexico State. The 6-5, 300 pounder recorded 30 tackles and 1.5 sacks last season.

As a high school recruit, Wilson was rated a three star prospect out of Orange Vista High in California. He signed with the Wildcats over offers from Arizona State, Hawaii, Kansas State and others.

As a transfer, Wilson has reported offers from Western Kentucky, North Texas, Texas Tech, Colorado State, Indiana, California, Rutgers, Texas A&M, Coastal Carolina and Syracuse, among others.