National Signing Day is tomorrow, and the 'Cats got one in at the buzzer. Ronald Derrick III is a three-star EDGE who was previously committed to Arizona State. Instead, he'll be taking his talents to Evanston hoping to help the defensive line continue to be a program strength.

Derick III is a three-star recruit according to both Rivals and 247Sports. The former ranks him as the No. 117 EDGE in the class of 2026 and the No. 170 player out of his home state of Texas, a top state for recruiting. According to 247, Derick III is the No. 131 defensive line recruit and the No. 72 player from Texas.

Both sites generally agree, which isn't shocking, because Derick III is a very projectable player. He's going to need development in order to play at a high level in the Big Ten, but he already has the size to succeed. Derick III is listed at 6-foot-5 with a weight of 260 lbs.

According to WildcatReport writer Matthew Shelton, a position change may be in Derick's future. He's listed at EDGE, but Shelton suggested in an article today that with his current size, he'll likely continue to bulk up an eventually move inside.

Regardless, this is a big win for Northwestern which has been able to flip a few players this year. Derick III's flip was likely facilitated by a visit he took to the school earlier this fall. His two visits were to Arizona State and Northwestern.

The 'Cats have also had players flip away from the program, but that's the nature of the game. David Braun and co. deserve credit for staying on their horse and convincing players like Derick III to make the opposite choice.

Derick III's other offers included Air Force, Arizona and Arkansas State, according to 247. It's unlikely he'd choose to commit to a different school for the third time given the immanency of signing day as well as a lack of other power-four offers.

Northwestern is developing a program identity based on winning in the trenches. This season, both lines were a strength, and it's clear that Braun understand the importance of keeping that statement true.

Read More Northwestern Wildcats Coverage

MORE: Michigan State Hiring Former Northwestern Coach Pat Fitzgerald

MORE: What is a Reasonable Evaluation of Preston Stone's Regular Season?

MORE: Missed Opportunities Doom Northwestern in 20-13 Loss to Illinois

MORE: Three Takeaways From Turnover-Happy, Aggravating Northwestern Loss at Illinois

MORE: Despite Offensive Explosion From Sullivan, Northwestern Falls 85-70 vs. Missouri