In-state check-in: 2021 Edge/TE Titus Graden

At 6-foot-5 and 220 pounds, Titus Graden has the ideal size to play on the edge - either standing up or with his hand in the ground - at the next level.

The junior from Northwestern (WI) High School also has the length and athletic ability to excel at tight end, the position where some college coaches project him to play.

"That's a tough question," Graden told BadgerBlitz.com when asked if he had a preference. "I love both of those positions because they are both physically demanding. I guess it depends on the program and where I could contribute the most to help a team win."

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Graden is still working towards his first scholarship offer, but a handful of schools are in steady contact.

"I hear the most from Iowa, North Dakota, North Dakota State and Western Illinois," Graden said. "Navy recently reached out and contacted me, and Iowa State sent me a letter inviting me to come to some camps over the summer. I also did a virtual visit with North Dakota State and Morehead State.

"I think some of the Division 2 schools are close to offering. It's hard to say with the Division 1 schools because their recruiting process is much different. I do believe that North Dakota will make the first offer. I think the Division 1 schools would make an offer in the late summer or early fall."

The Hawkeyes, led by assistant coach Tim Polasek, hosted Graden on March 1.

"The feedback from Iowa has been really good, actually," Graden said. "They call every week and tell me they are still pumped up about me and that things will move along better once everything opens up again.

"During the visit I was able to see the entire stadium, locker room, weight room and meeting rooms. It was a great experience. I was able to speak to the coaching staff as well. We took pictures on the field and some pictures with a uniform on. I learned about their conditioning program and was able to speak with some of the current players.

"I haven't heard anything from Wisconsin. Hopefully I will, though. It would be nice to be wanted by my state school."

Graden, who had 45 total tackles and one sack as a junior, helped Northwestern to an 11-1 record in 2019. He's hoping to expand his production this fall during his last prep season.

"I would really like to showcase my skills as a tight end," Graden said. "Also, one of my goals is to win the defensive player of the year in my conference and be named as an all-region player - possibly even all-state.

"As a team goal, I want to be able to help my team make it to state this year. We have been so close the past two years."