Tag: 2023 Rutgers recruits

Jamichael Davis signed his National Letter of Intent with Rutgers

2023 recruit Jamichael Davis arrived on campus on Monday, signing his National Letter of Intent to join Rutgers basketball 2023-24 team.

Jamichael Davis arrived on campus on Monday and set to join the Rutgers men’s basketball 2023-24 team. With the recent departures of guards Cam Spencer and Paul Mulcahy, reinforcements such as Davis are very much needed.

The three-star recruit committed to the Scarlet Knights in December over VCU, Auburn, Wichita State, and UAB. As a junior at McEachern High School (Powder Springs, Ga.), the 6-foot-2, 165-pound point guard averaged 22 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game.

The Georgia native is excellent on the perimeter while also possessing speed and agility to drive past defenders. The 2023 prospect plays with explosiveness and terrific vision. He is a great competitor who competes on the defensive end. Also, Davis plays intense defense and is an excellent rebounder for a point guard.

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Davis can provide instant offense, creating shots and getting his teammates involved. Rutgers struggled on offense in 2022-23, an aspect the Scarlet Knights would like to improve this upcoming season. Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell loves the energy, intensity, and athleticism Davis brings to the team. 

The new Scarlet Knight is an under-the-radar recruit, battling some injuries the past two summers. He has a high basketball IQ and plays unselfish basketball. According to 247Sports, Davis has a player rating of 87 and is the No. 215 ranked prospect in the class of 2023.

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Film review: Can transfer Shawn Bowman boost Tight End production for Rutgers football?

Can 2023 transfer Shawn Bowman add a much-needed boost to Rutgers football’s tight end position?

Maine transfer Shawn Bowman added a much-needed boost to Rutgers football’s tight end position when he signed with the Scarlet Knights for their 2023 season via the transfer portal.

The Scarlet Knights finally landed a rare high-level blocking and pass-catching tight end that can contribute on every down. Bowman, 6-foot-5, 263 pounds, has excellent size and can shine in the Big Ten.

His commitment to Rutgers football gives the Scarlet Knights a much-needed boost in the passing and rushing game. Bowman received interest from Mississippi State, Colorado, Louisville, and Oregon, electing to go with the Scarlet Knights. He was offered by Mississippi State.

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Film Breakdown

Heading into the 2023 season, Bowman will be a reliable outlet for Rutgers quarterback Gavin Wimsatt. His ability to run routes and block will make him an every-down tight end. Bowman has excellent hands, recording 30 receptions for 358 yards and five touchdowns, earning all-CAA third team last season.

The new Scarlet Knight offers a ton of experience, playing four seasons with the Black Bears. Bowman finished his Maine career (four seasons) with 86 catches for 960 yards and 11 touchdowns. The former Black Bear has the most experience among the other tight ends on the Rutgers 2023 roster.

His blocking ability will improve Rutgers’ offensive line struggles in the passing game. Also, he can seal the edge in the zone running scheme and kick out the edge defender in the power-rushing game.

As the 2023 season inches closer, Bowman will be an immediate boost in Rutgers’ lacking tight-end production.

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Rutgers football: 2023 transfer wide receiver JaQuae Jackson has star potential

Rutgers football received a big splash as wide receiver JaQuae Jackson joined the Scarlet Knights via the transfer portal.

Rutgers football received a big splash as wide receiver JaQuae Jackson joined the Scarlet Knights via the transfer portal. Jackson was a highly-rated player in the transfer portal, receiving offers from Miami, Texas A&M, and Colorado before committing to Rutgers football.

According to 247Sports, Rutgers’ new offensive coaching staff, under offensive coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca and wide receiver coach Dave Brock, is the main focal point in Jackson’s decision, as he felt Rutgers had the right combination to help him become a professional receiver.

Jackson has played for California University (PA) for three years. Last season at the Division 2 level, Jackson logged 77 catches for 1178 yards and 13 touchdowns. He also added two rushing touchdowns to his stat sheet.

The Pennsylvania native from Mckeesport, PA, has the potential to be the top wide receiver by the beginning of the 2023 season.

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Film Assessment

The 6-foot-3, 175 pounds wide receiver has excellent hands and athletic ability. He is an All-PSAC, All-Region, and All-American player at the Division 2 level. He can run multiple route combinations and line up anywhere on the field. Jackson causes a ton of mismatches, beating defenders in all types of coverages. He has an excellent vertical, out-jumping defender for the football. Jackson’s speed makes it difficult for defenders to cover him man-to-man. Jackson can add another level to the running game, providing sweeps around the outside.

Now that Jackson is an official Scarlet Knight, he needs to start studying the playbook and play catch up. If he can learn Ciarrocca’s playbook in time for the 2023 season, Jackson might find himself on the top of the receiver’s depth chart.

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Film Breakdown: Can John Stone add depth to Rutgers’ offensive line group?

Rutgers football 2023 recruit John Stone is excited to join RU’s family atmosphere. Can Stone add depth to Rutgers’ offensive line group?

John Stone, the first Rutgers football commitment in its 2023 class, is excited to join Rutgers’ family atmosphere. The 6-foot-3 270 pounds offensive lineman got recruited by Rutgers to add depth and physicality to their offensive line.

The New Jersey native from Sewell, NJ, is the first prospect from Washington Township High School to come to Rutgers since linebacker Ryan D’Imperio (2006-2009). D’Imperio was drafted as a linebacker in the 2010 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings (237th overall).

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According to 247Sports, Stone is ranked the No. 15 recruit in New Jersey and No. 71 in the nation among his recruiting class. Stone has a Rivals rating of 5.6 (3 stars). The Rutgers’ 2023 prospect received offers from Monmouth and Temple, electing to play for head coach Greg Schiano and the Scarlet Knights this upcoming season.

Stone’s Athletic Achievements (according to hudl.com):

  1. All South Jersey 1st Team – 2021
  2. All-Conference 1st Team – 2021

Film Breakdown

Stone offers a ton of physicality upfront, something he learned from wrestling in the off-season. For his size, Stone is quick and moves well when pulling or blocking in space. He has excellent technique when pulling (skip or open pull), knocking defenders down in his path. Stone finishes his blocks from whistle to whistle and plays with max effort. He has excellent technique and communication skills when double-teaming defenders with his teammates.

Stone can move well in the screen game, taking on multiple defenders downfield. He offers athletic footwork that can slow down pass rushers during passing situations. Stone’s size and quickness will allow him to play the guard positions or center at the Big Ten level.

As Stone develops into a Big Ten player, Rutgers’ strength and conditioning program will benefit the young recruit the most as he works to add depth to the Scarlet Knights’ offensive line.

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Rutgers football: Five things to watch during the ‘Spring Game’

Here are the five things to watch for as Rutgers football gets set to host its annual spring Scarlet-White Game at SHI Stadium.

On Saturday, Rutgers football gets set to host its annual spring Scarlet-White Game at SHI Stadium. After the conclusion of 14 spring practices, Rutgers football is ready to see one final evaluation before the 2023 season is underway.

For the last month, the Scarlet Knights have been installing a new system under offensive coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca while attempting to make strides on defense. Players’ jobs won’t be won or lost on Saturday, but the scrimmage will provide where the competition stands.

The quarterback competition between sophomore Gavin Wimsatt and junior Evan Simon will be a focal point on Saturday. In five games last season, Wimsatt threw for 757 yards, five touchdowns, and seven interceptions. Through nine games last season (two starts), Simon threw for 777 yards, four touchdowns, and six interceptions. The two quarterbacks have been evaluated throughout the spring and will face off against each other on Saturday.

The action begins at 3 p.m. with the Big Ten Network Connor Onion (play-by-play), Eric LeGrand (analyst), and Dom Savino (sideline) handling the broadcasting.

Here are the five things to watch:

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Film insight on Rutgers football commit Mozell Williams

In December 2022, Rutgers football landed a powerful offensive tackle Mozell Williams. Here is the film breakdown of the 2023 recruit.

Rutgers football landed a powerful offensive tackle when Mozell Williams signed his letter of intent with the Scarlet Knights as part of the 2023 recruiting class. The Flordia native out of Hawthrone High School guided the Hornets to a 12-0 record, capturing the FHSAA I Rural title.

The three-star recruit adds a powerful dynamic to Rutgers’ offensive line.

As a junior, Williams got elected into the Honorable Mention Class 1A All-State selection in 2021. According to 247Sports, the 6-foot-6, 340-pound was the No. 135 offensive tackle in the nation.

The Scarlet Knights were the only Power Five offer the offensive tackle would receive. He did receive significant interest from Florida last fall but never waivered in his commitment to Rutgers.

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Film Breakdown

Williams is a massive offensive tackle with all the traits of being a big-time lineman. For his size, the young prospect moves quickly off the ball. There is no block Williams can’t make. Down-blocking is one of Williams’s strengths, using his size and power to drive defenders off the ball. His arm span is a great asset when pass setting, slowing down speedy pass rushers. His 340-pound body frame will limit the chances of defensive linemen trying any power rush moves against him.

Improvements

Williams’s technique needs improvement, as his footwork tends to be inconsistent. He relies on his athletic ability and raw strength to overpower defensive linemen. Playing in the Big Ten, Williams is going to see a ton of skilled defensive players. The combination of excellent footwork and power will allow Williams to dominate the line of scrimmage.

Another area of improvement that Williams should focus on is his pad level. The offensive tackle tends to stand up instead of staying low when firing off the ball.

Areas for Williams to improve for sure.

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Rutgers football 2023 recruit Jesse Ofurie’s film assessment

On December 21st, recruit Jesse Ofurie signed his letter of intent, ready to bring his explosive playmaking ability to Rutgers football.

Jesse Ofurie is one of the most interesting members of the 2023 Rutgers football recruiting class. The Massachusetts native out of St. John’s Prep High School is already enrolled with the program.

Ofurie, from Salem, Massachusetts, played wide receiver and corner for the Eagles, helping them to an 11-2 record and MIAA state title as a senior. In 2022, Ofurie got selected as a Catholic Conference All-Star. Ofurie had a breakout season as a junior, catching 27 passes for 828 yards and a team-high 14 touchdowns. In 2021, he earned an honorable mention all-state award from the Massachusetts High School Football Coaches Association.

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According to ESPN, Ofurie was a top receiver prospect in Massachusetts and was ranked eighth overall in the state. 247Sports ranked the three-star recruit as No. 10 overall in Massachusetts and the No. 139 wide receiver in the country.

Film Breakdown

Ofurie (6-2/205 Ibs.) will provide a much-needed boost to Rutgers’ depth at wide receiver. In 2023, the Scarlet Knights will be searching for young talent on the outside, especially with the departure of Shameen Jones, Sean Ryan, and Aron Cruickshank.

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Rutgers’ new addition will help the development of their young quarterback Gavin Wimsatt. Ofurie has a big frame and is explosive off the line of scrimmage. His release off the ball beats a lot of press coverage, making him difficult to cover man to man. He is a quarterback’s best friend, adjusting too under thrown balls. Ofurie has strong hands, holding onto passes thrown into traffic. During jump balls, Ofurie does an excellent job catching the ball at its highest point. Rutgers’s recruit can be an addition on special teams, where he returned kicks in high school.

It is yet to be seen if Ofurie can block on the outside, something he should focus on when he begins practicing with the Scarlet Knights.

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Rutgers football 2023 commit Davoun Fuse’s film analysis

Signing his letter of intent, Rutgers football landed defensive prospect Davoun Fuse. How can Fuse contribute to the Scarlet Knights?

Rutgers football landed an athletic defensive prospect when 2023 recruit Davoun Fuse signed his letter of intent in December. The Scarlet Knights recruited the Pennsylvania native as a linebacker, knowing he was a quarterback in high school.

While attending Washington High School in Washington, PA, Fuse played quarterback and defensive back for the Prexies. The three-star recruit was a multiple sport athlete in high school, playing basketball and track in the offseason.

During his senior year, the 6-foot-4 200-pound prospect led his team to a 7-5 record and a Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League 2A quarterfinal appearance. Before the start of the season, Fuse got selected 2022 preseason conference all-star.

Fuse also threw for 11 touchdowns and ran in 14 as a junior, earning him MVP honors in the Class 2A Century Conference. According to 247Sports, Fuse is a top 25 prospect, ranking him 22nd in Pennsylvania. Among his recruiting class, Fuse is the nation’s No. 111 athlete prospect.

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Film Breakdown:

Fuse was a multi-position starter who played quarterback, safety, and corner in high school. Heading into his first season with the Scarlet Knights, the young prospect is projected to play either linebacker or safety.

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His athleticism will allow him to play multiple positions as his career develops. Fuse has excellent ball instincts while playing defensive back. With his quarterback knowledge, Fuse can read opposing routes, baiting the quarterback into bad decisions. He has excellent hands and can force a ton of pass breakups. Also, he has great tackling technique, using his shoulder pads instead of his helmet.

Fuse can be a dynamic punt returner on special teams since he has experience returning kicks. He can thrive on special teams, as an athletic playmaker.

Fuse is undersized for a Big Ten linebacker. Rutgers defensive coordinator Joe Harasymiak will try to utilize Fuse in the secondary, adding much-needed depth. As Fuse develops into a Big Ten player, it will be interesting to see what role he will inherit.

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Quarterback to wide receiver, 2023 three-star prospect to impact Rutgers football

From high school quarterback to Big Ten wide receiver, can 2023 recruit Vilay Nakkoun Jr. be an impactful player for Rutgers football?

2023 recruit Vilay Nakkoun Jr. is transitioning from a high school quarterback into a Big Ten wide receiver for Rutgers football. How can the young prospect use his expertise to impact Rutgers football?

A standout at Orlando Christian (Orlando, FL), Nakkoun led the Warriors to an 11-2 record, throwing 1,305 yards with 20 touchdowns and four interceptions in 2021. The high school quarterback added 344 yards on the ground with six rushing touchdowns during his junior year. As a senior, Nakkoun got selected as captain for his leadership. He finished his senior year with 708 passing yards and six touchdowns.

Nakkoun averaged 12.2 yards per carry with 550 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on the ground. At 5-foot-11 180 pounds, Nakkoun was selected as FACA 1M District 11 all-district for his stellar performance.

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Recruited as a wide receiver,  Vilay’s athleticism and versatility alone will make him an impactful player for Rutgers offense. As the 2023 season approaches, it is still unclear how Nakkoun can get involved in Rutgers’ offense. Not being under center might be a change of pace for the former quarterback, but his athleticism and football IQ will let him thrive at any other skill position.

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His quickness and quarterback knowledge will allow him to shine in the slot position. Being under-sized for the X or Z outside spots, the slot is where Nakkoun can do his damage. Ability to read defensive coverages, this recruit can find the soft spots in the opposing defenses.

New Rutgers offensive coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca could potentially design special packages and plays to utilize Nakkoun’s skill set. Rutgers is thin with proven talent at wide receiver, making Nakkoun’s abilities to climb the depth chart. Ciarrocca’s offense will be determined based on the personnel available, but with a player like Nakkoun, his offense can provide different wrinkles to get him the ball in space.

 

Rutgers football: Evaluating CHOP 2023 recruit WR Dylan Braithwaite

Dylan Braithwaite is 1 of 3 wide receivers to join CHOP 2023, signing his letter of intent. Take a look at the top-WR recruiting evaluation.

New York native Dylan Braithwaite is one of three wide receivers to join the Rutgers football 2023 recruiting class, having given his commitment in the summer and signing this December.

The three-star wide receiver out of Holy Trinity High School (Hicksville, N.Y.) led the Titans to a 9-1 record and the CHSFL AA-1 Intersectional championship. Braithwaite played three games as a senior, finishing the season with nine catches for 237 yards and four touchdowns. In 2021, Braithwaite had a stellar junior season, recording 30 receptions for 701 yards and nine touchdowns. Outside of playing wide receiver, he is also a dangerous punt returner.

As a junior, Braithwaite totaled 173 punt return yards.

According to ESPN, Braithwaite is the No. 2 overall prospect in New York. 247Sports has the three-star recruit ranked No. 7 in New York and 164th in the nation. Braithwaite received six offers  but Rutgers was the only team from a Power Five conference to offer the 2023 recruit.

Dylan Braithwaite, Holy Trinity Diocesan, Wide Receiver (247sports.com)

Evaluating Braithwaite’s skillset

Braithwaite ran 55 meters in 6.58 seconds at approximately 23 MPH, showing off his speed. When running routes, he can outpace many defenders. It will be tough to out throw his speed.

Braithwaite can make the big play anytime he has the ball in his hands. He relies on his hands to catch many passes, not letting the ball hit his body. He is a solid route runner with a great release off the line of scrimmage. Outside of playing receiver, Braithwaite is likely going to make an immediate impact on special teams for the Scarlet Knights. After showing his skill off in high school, he will most likely compete for the starting punt returner in 2023. 

Areas to work on

Braithwaite will need to add size and strength to factor into the two-deep at Rutgers. It is a good thing that the Scarlet Knights are getting him into the program this spring so he can be in the strength and conditioning program.

He might not win all the jump balls against opposing defenders, but he will outrun them. Braithwaite took many of his high school snaps from the X or Z position, but now he needs to work on taking routes out of the slot. While playing inside, Braithwaite can cause many mismatches against opposing linebackers or nickel packages. Look for Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano and his staff to work with Braithwaite in the slot, maximizing his skillset. 

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