The Hilltoppers landed a surprise commitment in the 2022 class on Wednesday from former Navy commit DeAnte McCray, an edge rusher out of Sandalwood (Fla.).

The 6-foot-5, 260-pound strongside defensive end revealed to InsideHilltopperSports.com that he has always been interesting in Western Kentucky and their football program and that getting an offer from the Hilltoppers was huge for him and his recruitment.

McCray announced his decommitment from Navy and commitment to Western Kentucky over social media on Wednesday morning.

McCray said that being offered by the Hilltoppers is what ultimately led to his decommitment.

McCray said that the Hilltoppers first started to get involved in his recruitment last season when he was put in touch with WKU assistant coach and cornerbacks coach Keynodo Hudson.

McCray said that he took an official visit to Western Kentucky the following Monday through Wednesday and said it was a great environment and he got to reconnect with Coach Hudson and meet more of the coaching staff.

McCray said that with the success the Hilltoppers had on the field last season and the recent success in the 2022 NFL Draft just goes to show that if you're willing to work hard, Western Kentucky is the place to be.

Before committing to Navy back on November 4th of last year, McCrary held notable offers from Florida Atlantic, Howard, Mercer and Troy while also garnering interest from Connecticut, Kentucky and Temple.

The 6-foot-5, 260-pound prospect will join defensive lineman Dareon Goodrum, Keaton Law, Marcus Patterson, and Kylan Guidry - all who signed with the Hilltoppers in the 2022 recruiting class.

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