Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

The defensive end out of Trophy Club, a former Baylor signee, has chosen to join the Frogs.

The third time is the charm.

After Gary Patterson and TCU missed out of their first two Baylor-decommit targets, they struck big on their third try, hauling in a great player and filling a need on defense. Brandon Bowen, a 6,5″, 227 pound weak side defensive end, who also played wide receiver for Byron Nelson, has committed to sign with the Frogs. The four star recruit held 19 offers prior to signing with Baylor, including Oregon, Michigan, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, and Texas. Rated as the #12 WDE in the country, Bowen runs a 4.63 40 and possesses the skill set prized by Coach Patterson on the defensive line. He joins class of 2016 signees Mat Boesen, Ross Blacklock, Isaiah Chambers, and Gary Overshown II, as well as incumbents James McFarland, Josh Carraway, and Tipa Galeai.

Bowen is the 11th recruit to be released from his NLI by BU, and the third to be heavily pursued by TCU. The Frogs came down to the final two for wide receiver Devin Duverney and running back Kameron Martin, but the players chose Texas and Auburn respectively. Though it was disappointing at the time, having a slot open for a player the caliber of Bowen is a huge win, and with his combination of speed and power, he could develop into a special player on the defensive line.

Bowen is the seventh four star recruit to sign with the Frogs for the 2016 season, and the second highest ever – coming in at no. 63 overall. He was heavily recruited by Curtis Luper, who played a major role in keeping the star close to home.

A strong defense just got stronger, and the line should be as good as any in the conference. Expected to report to campus as early as Monday, Bowen will be ready for fall camp and to immediately compete for snaps. Welcome to the Frog Fam, Brandon!