Minnesota’s 2022 recruiting class is up to nine verbal commitments.

Sunday morning, the Golden Gophers a pledge from 3-star cornerback Tariq Watson, a native of Harvey, Louisiana. He joins a Minnesota class that currently ranks No. 38 nationally and No. 7 in the B1G, according to 247Sports.

“After a visit it was clear that this program provides the environment for me to grow, transform, and cease all that will come from proper preparation/recovery, playing great football, and the Gopher academia!” Watson wrote on Twitter. “I would like to announce that I have Verbally Committed to the University of Minnesota!!”

Watson does not have any ratings from the 247Sports Composite, but he is listed as one of the Top 40 prospects out of Louisiana and is the No. 72 cornerback of the cycle, earning him a 3-star rating. His announcement comes just a few days after making an official visit to Minnesota.

Eight other programs extended an offer to the 5-foot-10, 165-pound Watson on the recruiting front. He picked Minnesota over Virginia, Purdue and Washington State at the Power 5 level. Idaho, McNeese State, Middle Tennessee State, Southern and Tulane also showed interest.

It’s been a busy month in recruiting for P.J. Fleck and his staff. Already, the Golden Gophers have received four verbal pledges in the 2022 class in June.