The Scarlet Knights added another potential weapon to their defensive line when three-star 2024 recruit defensive lineman Aaris Bethea committed to Rutgers football. On Saturday, June 10, Bethea provided his verbal commitment to Rutgers football, one day after his official visit.
The 6-foot-2 and 250 pounds interior defensive lineman has impressive athletic abilities. The New York native from Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn, NY, received interest from multiple Power Five schools (Maryland / Nebraska / Ole Miss / Texas A&M).
According to 247Sports, Bethea is ranked No. 6 in New York and No. 65 in the nation amongst his recruiting class. In 2020 as a high school freshman, Bethea got invited to FBU Freshman All-American Bowl.
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Film Evaluation
As a junior, Bethea and the Dutchmen won the 2022/23 Football “A” Public Schools Athletic League Champion last season. During the 2022 season, Bethea was an anchor along the Dutchmen’s defensive front. He has tremendous footwork and discipline along the line of scrimmage, making him a high-level recruit for Rutgers football.
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When rushing the quarterback, Bethea can attack opposing offensive linemen with an aggressive power rush or swim move. He is a versatile defensive lineman, lining up as a tackle or end. The 2024 prospect uses his violent hands when coming off the line of scrimmage, maintaining excellent gap responsibility.
Bethea has a high football IQ, providing excellent angles when chasing down ball carriers. The new Scarlet Knight has explosiveness and strength in his first step off the ball. With his tremendous footwork, it is difficult for opposing linemen to push Bethea off the line of scrimmage.
Bethea is an excellent addition to the Rutgers defensive line, as the 2024 recruit will shine in the Big Ten. With 15 commitments to Rutgers football 2024 recruiting class, the Scarlet Knights are now No. 20 in the nation, according to Rivals.com.
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