Defensive tackle Vincent Valentine made his commitment to Nebraska and signed a letter of intent Wednesday, becoming the 17th member of the Huskers’ 2012 recruiting class.

He’s a 6-foot-4, 313-pound D-lineman from Edwardsville, Ill., who said it was a close race between Nebraska and Illinois. Florida was also in the mix.

“Nebraska is a great place with great people, and they’re very consistent,” Valentine told Huskers Illustrated, The World-Herald’s recruiting partner. “I didn’t just love my visit there. I loved the people. I made a few bonds with my future classmates. It’s just a great place, and I can see myself being there for the next four or five years.

Get the latest on our signing day page. That’s where you’ll find NU signees Michael Rose and Paul Thurston participating in an online chat with fans Wednesday afternoon. Future Husker Tommy Armstrong already answered a few questions.

Coach Bo Pelini’s set to discuss the 2012 class at 2:30 p.m., so stay tuned for more updates.