The Gophers landed one of their most coveted targets on this year's recruiting trail Monday night, when Melvin Holland Jr., a wide receiver from Briar Woods High School in Ashburn, Va., gave them a verbal commitment.

Holland is a consensus three-star recruit who had offers from Wisconsin, Rutgers, Boston College and Wake Forest.

Wide receiver is one of the Gophers' biggest positions of need, and Holland is the first one to commit in this year's class. They could add up to two more with signing day coming Feb. 5.

Weyler commits

Less than one hour later after the Holland news broke, the Gophers received a commitment from Jared Weyler, an offensive lineman from Dayton (Ohio) Centerville High School.

Weyler, a three-star recruit, committed to Bowling Green but flipped to the Gophers after visiting last weekend.

Ragnow decision coming

Chanhassen offensive lineman Frank Ragnow tweeted (@Knarfwongar) that he will announce his college decision at 3:15 p.m. Friday. Ragnow has narrowed his list down to Minnesota, Arkansas and Florida State.

The Gophers have 16 players committed in this year's class, including three offensive linemen — Weyler, Connor Mayes and Luke Rasmussen — but they have made it clear they have room for Ragnow, who is a four-star recruit.

Nelson update

Former Gophers quarterback Philip Nelson enjoyed his official visit to Rutgers but also is considering Kansas State, his father Pat Nelson said in an e-mail.

Pat Nelson wrote: "Visit [to Rutgers] went very well. Philip very impressed. Kansas State now interested and talking with them."

Philip Nelson announced he was transferring from the Gophers two weeks ago.

JOE CHRISTENSEN

Etc.

• Tucker Hibbert, who splits his time between Pelican Rapids and Thief River Falls, captured his seventh consecutive Snocross gold medal with a dominant performance at the X Games in Aspen, Colo., on Sunday.