Football Welcomes 22 Additions to Signing Class
Feb 02 | Football
PISCATAWAY, N.J. – Joining the 20 student-athletes signed in December, Rutgers football head coach Greg Schiano announced the addition of 22 signees to the 2022 roster on Wednesday. The overall class is the highest rated for the Scarlet Knights by 247Sports, ESPN and Rivals in the Big Ten era. Twelve different states are represented, including 21 players from the Garden State.
The Scarlet Knights previously announced the following 20 signees in December.
Overall By State
New Jersey: 21
Pennsylvania: 6
Florida: 4
Massachusetts: 2
New York: 2
Delaware: 1
Illinois: 1
Indiana: 1
Kentucky: 1
Maryland: 1
Ohio: 1
Wisconsin: 1
Overall By Position
Offensive Line: 13
Linebacker: 6
Wide Receiver: 6
Athlete: 3
Defensive Back: 3
Defensive Line: 3
Kicker: 2
Running Back: 2
Tight End: 2
Long Snapper: 1
Quarterback: 1
Rani Abdulaziz
DB • 5-10 • 190
Roseland, N.J./West Essex
Career: Returns to Rutgers after one season at Central Connecticut State … played in 23 games for the Scarlet Knights from 2018-20 … has 34 games of collegiate experience overall.
2021 (Senior at Central Connecticut State): Played in 11 games at safety … totaled 34 tackles with one for loss … recorded two pass breakups … broke up a pass at Duquesne (11/13) … collected a season-high nine stops with one for loss versus LIU (10/23) … added five stops with a pass breakup at Sacred Heart (10/16) … had four tackles against Columbia (10/9) … posted three stops at Wagner (9/11) … notched four stops in the season opener versus Southern Connecticut State (9/3).
2020 (Senior): Played in six games on special teams ... named a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar (7/1) and to the Academic All-Big Ten list (12/10).
2019 (Junior): Played in nine games on special teams ... named to the Academic All-Big Ten list (12/11) ... recorded four tackles on punt coverage ... added a stop versus Michigan State (11/23) and against No. 2 Ohio State (11/16) ... ran down to tackle the punt returner for no return against Maryland (10/5) ... recorded a tackle on punt coverage versus Boston College (9/21) ... made season debut on special teams against Massachusetts (8/30).
2018 (Sophomore): Appeared in eight games on special teams ... totaled three tackles ... made a tackle on punt coverage at Wisconsin (11/3) ... added a tackle on special teams versus Buffalo (9/22) ... made collegiate debut on special teams at No. 4 Ohio State (9/8) and recorded a tackle on punt coverage.
2017 (Freshman): Did not see game action.
Prior to College: Coached by Chris Benacquista at West Essex … played defensive back for the Knights … helped West Essex finish 7-4 with an appearance in the NJSIAA North 2, Group 3 quarterfinals … finished final high school season with 54 tackles, four passes defended and a caused turnover … Second Team All-United Blue Division by the Bergen Record … also competed in track and field at West Essex.
Charlie Barth
RB • 5-11 • 215
New Providence, N.J./New Providence
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Chet Parlavecchio Jr. at New Providence … played running back and linebacker for the Pioneers … totaled 5,303 rushing yards with 74 total touchdowns on offense and 314 tackles on defense at the scholastic level … rushed for 2,025 yards with 27 touchdowns on 215 carries as a senior … added 36 receiving yards … recorded 77 tackles with four sacks on defense … had seven games with three touchdowns and nine contests topping 100 rushing yards … earned a spot on the USA Today Network All-New Jersey Offensive Team … named to the Jersey Sports Zone All-Zone Public Team … garnered NJ.com First Team All-Group II on defense … helped team to a 9-2 record … racked up 334 rushing yards on 44 carries with three sacks and an interception in playoff win over Delaware Valley … registered 1,702 rushing yards to place fourth in the state with 25 touchdowns as a junior … named 2020 NJ.com Big Central Football Conference Division 1B Player of the Year … helped team to division title and 8-1 record … scored 19 touchdowns with 1,510 rushing yards as a sophomore.
Antonio Chadha
K • 5-9 • 175
Bryn Mawr, Pa./St. Joseph's Prep
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Tim Roken at St. Joseph's Prep … handled field goals, extra points, punts and kickoffs for the Hawks … a three-time First Team All-Catholic selection … produced 113 career touchbacks … named to the Pennsylvania Football Writers 6A First Team All-State in 2021 … went 11-for-15 on field goals with a long of 40 yards and 47-for-48 on extra points as a senior … helped team advance to state title game … picked MaxPreps Second Team All-State in 2020 … tied the city record with 14 points in the state finals … made 4-of-5 field goals with a long of 47 yards in six games … booted 20 touchbacks … rated 4.5 stars by Kohl's Kicking.
Mike Ciaffoni
OL • 6-3 • 295
Sudbury, Mass./Lincoln-Sudbury
Career: Played in 13 collegiate games with five starts at Colorado State and Boston College ... switched from defensive line to offensive line while at Colorado State.
2021 (Sophomore at Colorado State): Played in 10 games with five starts for the Rams … switched to offensive line.
2020 (Sophomore at Boston College): Did not see game action.
2019 (Freshman at Boston College): Played in three games … registered a sack against Cincinnati in the Birmingham Bowl (1/2) … saw action versus Richmond (9/7) and Virginia Tech (8/31).
Prior to College: Played four years on the offensive and defensive lines at Lincoln-Sudbury ... rated a three-star prospect by 247Sports and ESPN ... rated among the top 10 prospects in Massachusetts and a national top-100 defensive line recruit ... registered 76 tackles, five sacks and one interception while serving as team captain in 2018 ... all-state selection in 2018 ... Boston Herald All-Scholastic and Boston Globe All-Scholastic pick in 2018 ... two-time DCL Lineman of the Year and two-time DCL All-Conference selection .. father, Joe, earned three letters (1990-92) for Rutgers football.
Nick Ciaffoni
OL • 6-4 • 270
Sudbury, Mass./Buckingham Browne & Nichols
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Mike Willey at Buckingham Browne & Nichols … played offensive and defensive line for the Knights … helped team to a 7-2 record and an appearance in the NEPSAC Kevin Driscoll Bowl as a senior in 2021 … brother, Mike, is also a member of the program … father, Joe, earned three letters (1990-92) for Rutgers football.
J.D. DiRenzo
OL • 6-6 • 315
Hammonton, N.J./St. Joseph Academy
Career: Started 40 games over previous four seasons for Sacred Heart at offensive tackle … a two-time FCS All-American … a three-time First Team All-Northeast Conference selection.
2021 (Senior at Sacred Heart): Started all 12 games at left tackle … named to the Hero Sports FCS All-America Third Team … earned First Team All-Northeast Conference and All-New England honors … helped Pioneers to second-straight Northeast Conference title and a berth in the FCS playoffs … team ranked 11th nationally with 211 rushing yards per game.
2021 Spring (Senior at Sacred Heart): Started all five games at left tackle … named American Football Coaches Association First Team All-America … earned First Team All-Northeast Conference … selected to CoSIDA Academic All-District 1 team … helped Pioneers to Northeast Conference title and a berth in the FCS playoffs … blocked for the 13th-best rushing attack in the country.
2019 (Junior at Sacred Heart): Started all 12 games at left tackle … named First Team All-Northeast Conference and Second Team All-ECAC … helped the team achieve the second-best passing offense and the third-best rushing offense in the conference … offensive line allowed a league-low 11 sacks (sixth-fewest in FCS) … paved the way for the nation's second-leading rusher.
2018 (Sophomore at Sacred Heart): Started all 11 games at right tackle … helped lead the NEC's top rushing offense (241.1 yards per game).
2017 (Freshman at Sacred Heart): Did not see game action.
Prior to College: A four-year letterwinner at St. Joseph's … part of St. Joseph's New Jersey Private Group I state championship teams in 2013, 2014 and 2015 … earned third team all-state, as well as first team all-conference and All-South Jersey as a senior.
Curtis Dunlap Jr.
OL • 6-5 • 345
Jacksonville, Fla./IMG Academy
Career: Played in 21 games with 16 starts at Minnesota.
2021 (Junior at Minnesota): Played in five games with three starts at right guard … saw significant action at Purdue (10/2) and protected for an offense that gained 294 yards and did not allow a sack … started at Colorado (9/18) and blocked for an offense that rushed for four touchdowns and totaled 441 yards (277 rushing, 164 passing) of offense … started the season opener versus No. 4 Ohio State (9/2) and blocked for an offense that produced 31 points, 408 total yards (203 rushing, 205 passing) and 24 first downs.
2020 (Junior at Minnesota): Did not see game action.
2019 (Sophomore at Minnesota): Started 12 games at right guard and helped block for an offense that totaled 5,616 yards, threw for a school-record 3,293 yards and scored 443 points … protected for an offense that gained 494 yards against No. 9 Auburn (1/1) and did not allow a sack in the Outback Bowl win … offense rushed for 212 yards and one touchdown and threw for 211 yards and four touchdowns at Northwestern (11/23) … blocked for an offense that scored 52 points, totaled 498 yards and did not allow a sack against Maryland (10/26) … started at Rutgers (10/19) and allowed no sacks in a 443-yard performance for the offense … unit rushed for four touchdowns versus Nebraska (10/12) … offense passed for 396 yards in road win over Purdue (9/28) … started the season opener against South Dakota State (8/29).
2018 (Freshman at Minnesota): Played in four games with one start … made first career start against Georgia Tech (12/26) in the Quick Lane Bowl and helped pave the way 260 rushing yards and two touchdowns, plus two passing scores in the victory … made collegiate debut in the season opener versus New Mexico (8/30).
Prior to College: Coached by Kevin Wright at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla. … helped IMG Academy to three-straight undefeated seasons … as a senior, anchored an offense that averaged 27.8 points and 177 rushing yards per game … helped IMG Academy reach No. 2 in the MaxPreps High School football rankings … named a 2017 preseason All-American by MaxPreps … named a 2016 Junior All-American by MaxPreps … competed in the 2018 Under Armour All-America Game … a consensus four-star recruit … ranked No. 123 in the ESPN 300 and No. 198 in 247Sports composite national rankings … ranked the No. 6 offensive guard in class and No. 34 recruit in Florida by 247Sports composite rankings.
Sammy El Hadidi
LS • 6-1 • 205
Bridgewater, N.J./Bridgewater-Raritan
Prior to Rutgers: Played for head coach Scott Bray at Bridgewater-Raritan … helped the Panthers to six wins as a senior in 2021 … served as a team captain … rated 4.5 stars and No. 1 long snapper in New Jersey by Kohls Kicking … won the camp-wide snapping competition with a 0.68 second snap through the middle of the target at the Kohl's Eastern Showcase … a Hammer Kicking Academy top-40 long snapper.
Sam Gadie
LB • 6-3 • 190
Trenton, N.J./Trenton Central
Prior to Rutgers: Played for head coach Chris Franco at Trenton Central … saw action at defensive end, linebacker and defensive back … totaled over 70 tackles as a senior with eight sacks and three interceptions … earned all-area on defense in the Capital Division of the West Jersey Football League … also plays basketball and competes on the track team for the Tornadoes … attended the same high school as current offensive lineman Hollin Pierce.
Brad Harris Jr.
OL • 6-4 • 280
Vineland, N.J./St. Joseph's Prep [Pa.]
Prior to Rutgers: Played for head coach Tim Roken at St. Joseph's Prep in Philadelphia … a three-time 6A state champion … named to the Pennsylvania Football Writers 6A First Team All-State in 2021 … earned a spot in the Blue-Grey All-American Bowl in Tampa … selected as the Pennsylvania Lineman of the Year by PA Preps in 2020 … also collected MaxPreps First Team All-State and First Team All-Catholic honors as a junior …a three-star recruit and No. 42 player in Pennsylvania by 247Sports.
Taj Harris
WR • 6-2 • 175
Beverly, N.J./Palmyra
Career: Played in 37 games the previous four seasons at Syracuse with 32 starts at wide receiver … has totaled 151 career receptions for 2,028 yards and 10 touchdowns … owns five 100-yard receiving games and 21 games with at last 50 receiving yards … recorded at least one catch in last 15 games played.
2021 (Junior at Syracuse): Started three games at wide receiver ... caught 16 passes for 171 yards … collected two passes for 20 yards versus Liberty (9/24) … recorded 122 receiving yards on eight catches against Rutgers (9/11) … had six catches at Ohio (9/4) … named to the Biletnikoff Award watch list.
2020 (Junior at Syracuse): Started 10 games at wide receiver … named Third Team All-ACC … ranked fifth in the ACC in receptions per game (5.8) … finished sixth in receiving yards per game (73.3) … totaled 58 catches, 733 yards and five touchdowns on the year, all of which led the team … had a touchdown reception in four-straight games (at Pittsburgh 9/19, Georgia Tech 9/26, Duke 10/10 and Liberty 10/17) … caught five passes for 64 yards to lead all receivers at North Carolina (9/12) … hauled in three passes for 72 yards, including a 69-yard touchdown catch at Pittsburgh (9/19) … caught three passes for 64 yards and a touchdown in the home opener versus Georgia Tech (9/26) … six catches for 138 yards and a score against Liberty (10/17) … made seven catches for 61 yards against Boston College (11/7) … made a career-high 13 catches, the second-highest single-game total in the ACC in 2020, for 146 yards and a touchdown against NC State (11/28) … caught eight passes for 69 yards and also had one carry for four yards in the season finale at Notre Dame (12/5).
2019 (Sophomore at Syracuse): Started all 12 games at wide receiver ... ranked second on the team in both catches (37) and receiving yards (559) ... had two touchdown receptions ... averaged 15.1 yards per catch ... made at least one catch in 10 games ... carried the ball twice for 25 yards (12.5 avg.) and was 1-for-2 passing for four yards ... made five catches for 85 yards and attempted the first pass of career at Maryland (9/7) ... against Holy Cross (9/28), recorded first 100-yard receiving game with six catches for 107 yards, including a 47-yard touchdown ... had three catches for a career-high 111 yards and a touchdown versus Pittsburgh (10/18) ... caught a 94-yard touchdown against the Panthers, tied for the second-longest reception in school history ... at Duke (11/16), recorded a career-long 15-yard run and completed a four-yard pass ... made six catches for 58 yards at Louisville (11/23) ... against Wake Forest (11/30), tallied a personal-best seven receptions for 70 yards and rushed once for 10 yards in overtime victory ... member of the Fall 2019 SU Athletic Director's Honor Roll.
2018 (Freshman at Syracuse): Played in 12 games with seven starts at wide receiver ... established Syracuse freshman records for both catches (40) and receiving yards (565) … third among ACC freshmen in receptions ... had seven games with 50+ yards receiving and nine with multiple receptions … scored three touchdowns … made collegiate debut and caught first pass for a 24-yard touchdown against Wagner (9/8) … had three catches for 66 yards, including a season-long grab of 51 yards, at Clemson (9/29) … made four receptions for 64 yards in his first career start at Pittsburgh (10/6) … caught five passes for 51 yards against North Carolina (10/20) … against NC State (10/27), set season highs for receptions (6), receiving yards (86), and caught a 31-yard touchdown … equaled season best with six catches for 58 yards versus Louisville (11/9) … against Notre Dame (11/17), caught five passes for a team-high 78 yards … made three grabs for 45 yards and a touchdown at Boston College (11/24) … had four receptions for 55 yards in the Camping World Bowl against West Virginia (12/28).
Prior to College: Coached by Jack Geisel at Palmyra … played wide receiver and quarterback during scholastic career … listed as one of the top prospects in New Jersey by ESPN (No. 16), the 247Sports composite (No. 21) and Rivals (No. 26) … two-time West Jersey Football League Freedom Division All-Star … PrepStar All-East Region selection … second player in South Jersey football history to pass for 1,000 yards in one season and have at least 1,000 yards receiving in another, according to area football historian Chuck Langerman … as a senior quarterback in 2017, accounted for 29 touchdowns and more than 2,300 yards of offense … passed for 1,550 and 19 touchdowns, while rushing for 979 yards and 10 touchdowns … recorded 990 yards from scrimmage (600 rushing, 390 receiving) and nine touchdowns as a junior, in addition to throwing for 441 yards and seven scores … as a sophomore, caught 51 passes for 1,101 yards (21.6 avg.) and 13 touchdowns … member of the Panthers' basketball and track teams … averaged 25.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 3.6 steals per game for Palmyra as a junior on the basketball court, including a 50-point game against Salem.
Connor Hebbeler
TE • 6-2 • 235
Franklin Lakes, N.J./Bergen Catholic
Career: Played in 24 career games, 17 at Wake Forest and seven at Valparaiso.
2021 (Senior at Valparaiso): Played in seven games … named All-Pioneer Football League honorable mention … totaled 13 receptions for 118 yards and three touchdowns … scored a touchdown on a season-high four catches against Morehead State (11/20) … found the end zone at Butler (11/13) … recorded 39 receiving yards with a touchdown versus Presbyterian (11/6) … registered a two-point conversion against Dartmouth (9/18) … posted two receptions at North Dakota State (9/11) … hauled in two catches for 20 yards at Indiana Wesleyan (9/4).
2020 (Senior at Wake Forest): Played in seven games … saw action in the Duke's Mayo Bowl against Wisconsin (12/30).
2019 (Junior at Wake Forest): Played in eight games … transitioned to tight end and saw action on kickoff return team … played a season-high nine snaps against Clemson (11/16).
2018 (Sophomore at Wake Forest): Played in two games at defensive tackle … made two tackles versus Duke (11/25).
2017 (Freshman at Wake Forest): Did not see game action.
Prior to College: Played for current Rutgers assistant coach Nunzio Campanile at Bergen Catholic … earned three letters … an honorable mention all-league selection … had 16 receptions for 190 yards and two touchdowns as a senior ... recorded 22 tackles on defense ... had the game-winning reception over archrival St. Joseph's in 2015.
Sebastian Jusma
ATH • 6-2 • 200
Teaneck, N.J./Teaneck
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Sam Griffin at Teaneck … played running back, wide receiver and defensive back for the Highwaymen … finished senior season with 77 carries for 685 yards and six touchdowns and added 10 catches for 197 yards and a score … also racked up 85 tackles, two interceptions and a fumble recovery on defense … first-team all-conference by The Star-Ledger … collected 30 tackles and two passes defended along with two receiving touchdowns as a junior in 2020 … also competes in track and field and wrestling at Teaneck … earned all-division honors in the 110 high hurdles by the Bergen Record.
Damon Matthews
DB • 5-10 • 175
Pine Hill, N.J./Overbrook
2020 (Sophomore at Arizona State): Did not see game action.
2019 (Freshman at Arizona State): Did not see game action.
Prior to College: A two-way standout at Overbrook, seeing time at the varsity level in four different seasons … recorded 224 tackles, 10 interceptions, two pass deflections, two fumble recoveries and a forced fumble in 28 career games … collected 2,290 all-purpose yards, returning both a punt and kick for a touchdown during his career … made 112 catches for 1,597 yards and 15 touchdowns as a receiver.
Isaiah Nesmith
WR • 6-4 • 195
West Palm Beach, Fla./American Heritage
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Pat Surtain at American Heritage … played wide receiver during scholastic career helped Patriots to six wins and an appearance in the 2021 FHSAA Football State Championships … finished senior season with 13 catches for 118 yards and three touchdowns … also plays basketball at American Heritage.
David Onuoha
LB • 6-1 • 205
Aberdeen, N.J./Matawan Regional
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Jay Graber at Matawan Regional … played linebacker and running back for the Huskies … posted 157 tackles with 14 for loss and 3.5 sacks as a senior … had at least 12 tackles in all 10 games with a high of 22 at Neptune … rushed for 1,093 yards with 10 touchdowns … had a four-touchdown game at Red Bank Regional and a season-best 215 yards on the ground at Neptune … named Third Team All-Shore Conference on defense and All-Liberty Division on offense in the coaches' vote … had 89 tackles in six games in 2020 to place fourth in the Shore Conference … totaled 74 stops as a sophomore … also competed in track and field.
Ryan Russo
LB • 6-2 • 195
Harrisburg, Pa./Bishop McDevitt
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Jeff Weachter at Bishop McDevitt … played linebacker for the Crusaders … helped Bishop McDevitt to a 12-2 record, a District 3 title and a state championship game appearance in 2021 … finished senior season with 135 tackles, 15 tackles-for-loss, 3.5 sacks and an interception … first team all-state selection by PennLive … Mid-Penn Keystone Coaches Defensive Player of the Year … produced 48 tackles with a sack as a junior in 2020 … also a standout on the hardwood, currently averaging 10 points per game during senior season.
Sean Ryan
WR • 6-3 • 195
Brooklyn, N.Y./Erasmus Hall
Career: Played in 41 career games with 22 starts … owns 81 receptions for 1,044 yards … scored four touchdowns … played last three seasons at West Virginia after starting career at Temple.
2021 (Junior at West Virginia): Played in all 13 games with 10 starts at wide receiver … totaled 25 receptions for 399 yards and three touchdowns … contributed a seven-yard catch in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl versus Minnesota (12/28) … led team with five catches for 87 yards at Kansas (11/27) … caught a seven-yard touchdown pass against Texas (11/20) … had three catches for 39 yards at Kansas State (11/13) … made four catches for 81 yards at TCU (10/23) … caught a 12-yard touchdown at Baylor (10/9) … scored a touchdown versus LIU (9/11) with 77 receiving yards overall … hauled in three catches for 48 yards in the season opener at Maryland (9/4).
2020 (Junior at West Virginia): Played in nine games with six starts at wide receiver … totaled 25 catches for 264 yards … collected four receptions for 48 yards against Army in the Liberty Bowl (12/31) … recorded five catches for a season-best 79 yards at Iowa State (12/5) … hauled in four passes for 31 yards against TCU (11/14) … registered five receptions at Texas (11/7) … contributed three catches at Texas Tech (10/24) … had two receptions for 31 yards versus Kansas (9/26).
2019 (Sophomore at West Virginia): Played in eight games with six starts at wide receiver … named to the Academic All-Big 12 Second Team … totaled 19 receptions for 219 yards … posted three catches for 34 yards at TCU (11/29) … recorded season highs with five receptions for 70 yards against No. 11 Texas (10/5) … added three catches for 20 yards at Kansas (9/21) … picked up four receptions for 38 yards and contributed a 24-yard rush versus NC State (9/14) … started season opener against James Madison (8/31) and collected two passes for 31 yards.
2018 (Freshman at Temple): Played in 11 games … totaled 12 catches for 162 yards with a touchdown … had three receptions for 44 yards against Duke in the Independence Bowl (12/27) … posted a season-high four catches for 57 yards with a touchdown versus East Carolina (10/6) … caught first career pass against Boston College (9/29) … made collegiate debut versus Buffalo (9/8).
Prior to College: Played wide receiver for coach Danny Landberg at Erasmus Hall … a four-year letterwinner, helping team to a 44-8 record with a 12-1 mark as a senior … named conference wide receiver of the year … earned all-city, Brooklyn 44 and all-conference during sophomore, junior and senior seasons.
Willie Tyler III
OL • 6-7 • 330
Racine, Wis./Racine Lutheran/Iowa Western CC
2021 (Junior at Louisiana Monroe): Played in 10 games with nine starts at left tackle.
2020 (Junior at Texas): Did not see game action.
2019 (Sophomore at Texas): Did not see game action … a member of the Big 12 Commissioner's Honor Roll.
2018 (Freshman at Iowa Western CC): Transitioned to offensive line … helped Iowa Western to a 10-1 overall record, including a win in the Graphic Edge Bowl.
Prior to College: Played predominantly as a defensive lineman with limited time on the offensive line in high school … named first-team All-Racine County as a defensive lineman in 2016 … chosen first-team All-Metro Classic Conference … recorded 45 tackles, including 23 solo, 11 tackles-for-loss, 2.5 sacks, three blocked kicks and two interceptions as a senior … helped Racine Lutheran to a 5-4 overall record, including a 4-2 conference mark, and an appearance in the Division 6 playoffs in 2016 … played in just three games as a junior in 2015 because of a foot injury … transferred to Racine Lutheran for sophomore year in 2014 and was part of the defensive line rotation … helped Racine Lutheran to a 6-4 overall record, including a 4-3 conference mark, and an appearance in the Division 6 playoffs in 2014 … attended Case High School in Racine in 2013 and played on the freshman team … also played basketball and threw discus and shot put.
Timmy Ward
WR • 6-0 • 190
Canton, Pa./Canton
Prior to Rutgers: Served as a student manager with the program in 2021 ... an all-state athlete who battled both Hodgkin's Lymphoma and a torn ACL during scholastic career … coached by Tyler Sechrist at Canton ... played wide receiver and defensive back for the Warriors ... granted an extra year of high school eligibility and registered 13 tackles in 2020 before his season was ended with a torn ACL … missed entire 2019 season after Hodgkin's Lymphoma diagnoses … finished junior season in 2018 with 36 catches for 645 yards and seven touchdowns along with two kick return touchdowns … also produced 84 tackles, 11 interceptions and a fumble recovery … earned all-state honors at defensive back … Eastern PA Football Class 1A Player of the Year … garnered all-state accolades as a sophomore in 2017 … also a standout wrestler and finished sixth in his weight class at the PIAA Wrestling State championships.
Dominick Williams
LB • 6-1 • 210
Rahway, N.J./Rahway
Prior to Rutgers: Played linebacker and defensive end at Wesley College from 2018-20 … competed in school's final athletic season during the 2020 spring campaign … named all-conference in the New Jersey Athletic Conference … helped the Wolverines to a 2-1 record during 2020 spring season … produced four tackles with one for loss against Salisbury (3/13) … registered two tackles and a sack against Christopher Newport (4/2) … helped Wesley to 10-1 overall record and a 6-1 mark in NJAC action in 2019 … produced 14 tackles in 10 games played during 2019 season … also played baseball at Wesley … coached by Brian Russo at Rahway … competed in football, baseball and track and field in high school.
Micah Wing
ATH • 6-2 • 200
Wilmington, Del./Salesianum
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Bill DiNardo at Salesianum … played defensive end and linebacker for the Sallies … helped Salesianum to an 8-3 record and an appearance in the DIAA-3A playoffs … a three-star signee and the No. 3 player in the state by 247Sports … a three-star prospect and the No. 4 overall player from Delaware by Rivals.
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| Name | POS | HT | WT | Hometown | High School |
| Rani Abdulaziz | DB | 5-10 | 190 | Roseland, N.J. | West Essex |
| Charlie Barth | RB | 5-11 | 215 | New Providence, N.J. | New Providence |
| Antonio Chadha | K | 5-9 | 175 | Bryn Mawr, Pa. | St. Joseph's Prep |
| Mike Ciaffoni | OL | 6-3 | 295 | Sudbury, Mass. | Lincoln-Sudbury |
| Nick Ciaffoni | OL | 6-4 | 270 | Sudbury, Mass. | Buckingham Browne & Nichols |
| J.D. DiRenzo | OL | 6-6 | 315 | Hammonton, N.J. | St. Joseph Academy |
| Curtis Dunlap Jr. | OL | 6-5 | 345 | Jacksonville, Fla. | IMG Academy |
| Sammy El Hadidi | LS | 6-1 | 205 | Bridgewater, N.J. | Bridgewater-Raritan |
| Sam Gadie | LB | 6-3 | 190 | Trenton, N.J. | Trenton Central |
| Brad Harris Jr. | OL | 6-4 | 280 | Vineland, N.J. | St. Joseph's Prep [Pa.] |
| Taj Harris | WR | 6-2 | 175 | Beverly, N.J. | Palmyra |
| Connor Hebbeler | TE | 6-2 | 235 | Franklin Lakes, N.J. | Bergen Catholic |
| Sebastian Jusma | ATH | 6-2 | 200 | Teaneck, N.J. | Teaneck |
| Damon Matthews | DB | 5-10 | 175 | Pine Hill, N.J. | Overbrook |
| Isaiah Nesmith | WR | 6-4 | 195 | West Palm Beach, Fla. | American Heritage |
| David Onuoha | LB | 6-1 | 205 | Aberdeen, N.J. | Matawan Regional |
| Sean Ryan | WR | 6-3 | 195 | Brooklyn, N.Y. | Erasmus Hall |
| Ryan Russo | LB | 6-2 | 195 | Harrisburg, Pa. | Bishop McDevitt |
| Willie Tyler III | OL | 6-7 | 330 | Racine, Wis. | Racine Lutheran |
| Timmy Ward | WR | 6-0 | 190 | Canton, Pa. | Canton |
| Dominick Williams | LB | 6-1 | 210 | Rahway, N.J. | Rahway |
| Micah Wing | ATH | 6-2 | 200 | Wilmington, Del. | Salesianum |
The Scarlet Knights previously announced the following 20 signees in December.
| Name | POS | HT | WT | Hometown | High School |
| DJ Allen | DL | 6-7 | 245 | Leo, Ind. | Leo |
| Jacob Allen | OL | 6-6 | 295 | Spotswood, N.J. | Hun School |
| Thomas Amankwaa | ATH | 6-0 | 195 | Hillsborough, N.J. | Hillsborough |
| Kwabena Asamoah | OL | 6-4 | 325 | Pickerington, Ohio | Pickerington Central |
| Amarion Brown | WR | 6-3 | 175 | Stuart, Fla. | Martin County |
| Samuel Brown V | RB | 6-1 | 205 | Philadelphia, Pa. | La Salle College |
| Dantae Chin | OL | 6-4 | 300 | Weston, Fla. | Cypress Bay |
| Joe De Croce | OL | 6-6 | 290 | Haworth, N.J. | Northern Valley Regional |
| Kenny Fletcher | DL | 6-4 | 215 | Delran, N.J. | Delran |
| Mike Higgins | TE | 6-6 | 240 | Ho-Ho-Kus, N.J. | Blair Academy |
| Anthony Johnson | LB | 6-1 | 245 | Philadelphia, Pa. | Neumann Goretti |
| Nelson Monegro | OL | 6-7 | 295 | Union City, N.J. | Union City |
| Jai Patel | K | 5-9 | 170 | Monmouth Junction, N.J. | South Brunswick |
| Q'yaeir Price | DL | 6-2 | 255 | Paterson, N.J. | DePaul Catholic |
| Rashad Rochelle | WR | 5-11 | 170 | Springfield, Ill. | Springfield |
| Emir Stinette | OL | 6-5 | 380 | Philadelphia, Pa. | Imhotep Charter |
| Moses Walker | LB | 6-2 | 220 | Staten Island, N.Y. | Erasmus Hall |
| Taj White | OL | 6-6 | 310 | Jersey City, N.J. | Hudson Catholic |
| Zilan Williams | DB | 6-2 | 180 | Martinsburg, W.Va. | DeMatha Catholic [Md.] |
| Gavin Wimsatt | QB | 6-3 | 200 | Owensboro, Ky. | Owensboro |
Overall By State
New Jersey: 21
Pennsylvania: 6
Florida: 4
Massachusetts: 2
New York: 2
Delaware: 1
Illinois: 1
Indiana: 1
Kentucky: 1
Maryland: 1
Ohio: 1
Wisconsin: 1
Overall By Position
Offensive Line: 13
Linebacker: 6
Wide Receiver: 6
Athlete: 3
Defensive Back: 3
Defensive Line: 3
Kicker: 2
Running Back: 2
Tight End: 2
Long Snapper: 1
Quarterback: 1
Rani Abdulaziz
DB • 5-10 • 190
Roseland, N.J./West Essex
Career: Returns to Rutgers after one season at Central Connecticut State … played in 23 games for the Scarlet Knights from 2018-20 … has 34 games of collegiate experience overall.
2021 (Senior at Central Connecticut State): Played in 11 games at safety … totaled 34 tackles with one for loss … recorded two pass breakups … broke up a pass at Duquesne (11/13) … collected a season-high nine stops with one for loss versus LIU (10/23) … added five stops with a pass breakup at Sacred Heart (10/16) … had four tackles against Columbia (10/9) … posted three stops at Wagner (9/11) … notched four stops in the season opener versus Southern Connecticut State (9/3).
2020 (Senior): Played in six games on special teams ... named a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar (7/1) and to the Academic All-Big Ten list (12/10).
2019 (Junior): Played in nine games on special teams ... named to the Academic All-Big Ten list (12/11) ... recorded four tackles on punt coverage ... added a stop versus Michigan State (11/23) and against No. 2 Ohio State (11/16) ... ran down to tackle the punt returner for no return against Maryland (10/5) ... recorded a tackle on punt coverage versus Boston College (9/21) ... made season debut on special teams against Massachusetts (8/30).
2018 (Sophomore): Appeared in eight games on special teams ... totaled three tackles ... made a tackle on punt coverage at Wisconsin (11/3) ... added a tackle on special teams versus Buffalo (9/22) ... made collegiate debut on special teams at No. 4 Ohio State (9/8) and recorded a tackle on punt coverage.
2017 (Freshman): Did not see game action.
Prior to College: Coached by Chris Benacquista at West Essex … played defensive back for the Knights … helped West Essex finish 7-4 with an appearance in the NJSIAA North 2, Group 3 quarterfinals … finished final high school season with 54 tackles, four passes defended and a caused turnover … Second Team All-United Blue Division by the Bergen Record … also competed in track and field at West Essex.
Charlie Barth
RB • 5-11 • 215
New Providence, N.J./New Providence
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Chet Parlavecchio Jr. at New Providence … played running back and linebacker for the Pioneers … totaled 5,303 rushing yards with 74 total touchdowns on offense and 314 tackles on defense at the scholastic level … rushed for 2,025 yards with 27 touchdowns on 215 carries as a senior … added 36 receiving yards … recorded 77 tackles with four sacks on defense … had seven games with three touchdowns and nine contests topping 100 rushing yards … earned a spot on the USA Today Network All-New Jersey Offensive Team … named to the Jersey Sports Zone All-Zone Public Team … garnered NJ.com First Team All-Group II on defense … helped team to a 9-2 record … racked up 334 rushing yards on 44 carries with three sacks and an interception in playoff win over Delaware Valley … registered 1,702 rushing yards to place fourth in the state with 25 touchdowns as a junior … named 2020 NJ.com Big Central Football Conference Division 1B Player of the Year … helped team to division title and 8-1 record … scored 19 touchdowns with 1,510 rushing yards as a sophomore.
Antonio Chadha
K • 5-9 • 175
Bryn Mawr, Pa./St. Joseph's Prep
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Tim Roken at St. Joseph's Prep … handled field goals, extra points, punts and kickoffs for the Hawks … a three-time First Team All-Catholic selection … produced 113 career touchbacks … named to the Pennsylvania Football Writers 6A First Team All-State in 2021 … went 11-for-15 on field goals with a long of 40 yards and 47-for-48 on extra points as a senior … helped team advance to state title game … picked MaxPreps Second Team All-State in 2020 … tied the city record with 14 points in the state finals … made 4-of-5 field goals with a long of 47 yards in six games … booted 20 touchbacks … rated 4.5 stars by Kohl's Kicking.
Mike Ciaffoni
OL • 6-3 • 295
Sudbury, Mass./Lincoln-Sudbury
Career: Played in 13 collegiate games with five starts at Colorado State and Boston College ... switched from defensive line to offensive line while at Colorado State.
2021 (Sophomore at Colorado State): Played in 10 games with five starts for the Rams … switched to offensive line.
2020 (Sophomore at Boston College): Did not see game action.
2019 (Freshman at Boston College): Played in three games … registered a sack against Cincinnati in the Birmingham Bowl (1/2) … saw action versus Richmond (9/7) and Virginia Tech (8/31).
Prior to College: Played four years on the offensive and defensive lines at Lincoln-Sudbury ... rated a three-star prospect by 247Sports and ESPN ... rated among the top 10 prospects in Massachusetts and a national top-100 defensive line recruit ... registered 76 tackles, five sacks and one interception while serving as team captain in 2018 ... all-state selection in 2018 ... Boston Herald All-Scholastic and Boston Globe All-Scholastic pick in 2018 ... two-time DCL Lineman of the Year and two-time DCL All-Conference selection .. father, Joe, earned three letters (1990-92) for Rutgers football.
Nick Ciaffoni
OL • 6-4 • 270
Sudbury, Mass./Buckingham Browne & Nichols
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Mike Willey at Buckingham Browne & Nichols … played offensive and defensive line for the Knights … helped team to a 7-2 record and an appearance in the NEPSAC Kevin Driscoll Bowl as a senior in 2021 … brother, Mike, is also a member of the program … father, Joe, earned three letters (1990-92) for Rutgers football.
J.D. DiRenzo
OL • 6-6 • 315
Hammonton, N.J./St. Joseph Academy
Career: Started 40 games over previous four seasons for Sacred Heart at offensive tackle … a two-time FCS All-American … a three-time First Team All-Northeast Conference selection.
2021 (Senior at Sacred Heart): Started all 12 games at left tackle … named to the Hero Sports FCS All-America Third Team … earned First Team All-Northeast Conference and All-New England honors … helped Pioneers to second-straight Northeast Conference title and a berth in the FCS playoffs … team ranked 11th nationally with 211 rushing yards per game.
2021 Spring (Senior at Sacred Heart): Started all five games at left tackle … named American Football Coaches Association First Team All-America … earned First Team All-Northeast Conference … selected to CoSIDA Academic All-District 1 team … helped Pioneers to Northeast Conference title and a berth in the FCS playoffs … blocked for the 13th-best rushing attack in the country.
2019 (Junior at Sacred Heart): Started all 12 games at left tackle … named First Team All-Northeast Conference and Second Team All-ECAC … helped the team achieve the second-best passing offense and the third-best rushing offense in the conference … offensive line allowed a league-low 11 sacks (sixth-fewest in FCS) … paved the way for the nation's second-leading rusher.
2018 (Sophomore at Sacred Heart): Started all 11 games at right tackle … helped lead the NEC's top rushing offense (241.1 yards per game).
2017 (Freshman at Sacred Heart): Did not see game action.
Prior to College: A four-year letterwinner at St. Joseph's … part of St. Joseph's New Jersey Private Group I state championship teams in 2013, 2014 and 2015 … earned third team all-state, as well as first team all-conference and All-South Jersey as a senior.
Curtis Dunlap Jr.
OL • 6-5 • 345
Jacksonville, Fla./IMG Academy
Career: Played in 21 games with 16 starts at Minnesota.
2021 (Junior at Minnesota): Played in five games with three starts at right guard … saw significant action at Purdue (10/2) and protected for an offense that gained 294 yards and did not allow a sack … started at Colorado (9/18) and blocked for an offense that rushed for four touchdowns and totaled 441 yards (277 rushing, 164 passing) of offense … started the season opener versus No. 4 Ohio State (9/2) and blocked for an offense that produced 31 points, 408 total yards (203 rushing, 205 passing) and 24 first downs.
2020 (Junior at Minnesota): Did not see game action.
2019 (Sophomore at Minnesota): Started 12 games at right guard and helped block for an offense that totaled 5,616 yards, threw for a school-record 3,293 yards and scored 443 points … protected for an offense that gained 494 yards against No. 9 Auburn (1/1) and did not allow a sack in the Outback Bowl win … offense rushed for 212 yards and one touchdown and threw for 211 yards and four touchdowns at Northwestern (11/23) … blocked for an offense that scored 52 points, totaled 498 yards and did not allow a sack against Maryland (10/26) … started at Rutgers (10/19) and allowed no sacks in a 443-yard performance for the offense … unit rushed for four touchdowns versus Nebraska (10/12) … offense passed for 396 yards in road win over Purdue (9/28) … started the season opener against South Dakota State (8/29).
2018 (Freshman at Minnesota): Played in four games with one start … made first career start against Georgia Tech (12/26) in the Quick Lane Bowl and helped pave the way 260 rushing yards and two touchdowns, plus two passing scores in the victory … made collegiate debut in the season opener versus New Mexico (8/30).
Prior to College: Coached by Kevin Wright at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla. … helped IMG Academy to three-straight undefeated seasons … as a senior, anchored an offense that averaged 27.8 points and 177 rushing yards per game … helped IMG Academy reach No. 2 in the MaxPreps High School football rankings … named a 2017 preseason All-American by MaxPreps … named a 2016 Junior All-American by MaxPreps … competed in the 2018 Under Armour All-America Game … a consensus four-star recruit … ranked No. 123 in the ESPN 300 and No. 198 in 247Sports composite national rankings … ranked the No. 6 offensive guard in class and No. 34 recruit in Florida by 247Sports composite rankings.
Sammy El Hadidi
LS • 6-1 • 205
Bridgewater, N.J./Bridgewater-Raritan
Prior to Rutgers: Played for head coach Scott Bray at Bridgewater-Raritan … helped the Panthers to six wins as a senior in 2021 … served as a team captain … rated 4.5 stars and No. 1 long snapper in New Jersey by Kohls Kicking … won the camp-wide snapping competition with a 0.68 second snap through the middle of the target at the Kohl's Eastern Showcase … a Hammer Kicking Academy top-40 long snapper.
Sam Gadie
LB • 6-3 • 190
Trenton, N.J./Trenton Central
Prior to Rutgers: Played for head coach Chris Franco at Trenton Central … saw action at defensive end, linebacker and defensive back … totaled over 70 tackles as a senior with eight sacks and three interceptions … earned all-area on defense in the Capital Division of the West Jersey Football League … also plays basketball and competes on the track team for the Tornadoes … attended the same high school as current offensive lineman Hollin Pierce.
Brad Harris Jr.
OL • 6-4 • 280
Vineland, N.J./St. Joseph's Prep [Pa.]
Prior to Rutgers: Played for head coach Tim Roken at St. Joseph's Prep in Philadelphia … a three-time 6A state champion … named to the Pennsylvania Football Writers 6A First Team All-State in 2021 … earned a spot in the Blue-Grey All-American Bowl in Tampa … selected as the Pennsylvania Lineman of the Year by PA Preps in 2020 … also collected MaxPreps First Team All-State and First Team All-Catholic honors as a junior …a three-star recruit and No. 42 player in Pennsylvania by 247Sports.
Taj Harris
WR • 6-2 • 175
Beverly, N.J./Palmyra
Career: Played in 37 games the previous four seasons at Syracuse with 32 starts at wide receiver … has totaled 151 career receptions for 2,028 yards and 10 touchdowns … owns five 100-yard receiving games and 21 games with at last 50 receiving yards … recorded at least one catch in last 15 games played.
2021 (Junior at Syracuse): Started three games at wide receiver ... caught 16 passes for 171 yards … collected two passes for 20 yards versus Liberty (9/24) … recorded 122 receiving yards on eight catches against Rutgers (9/11) … had six catches at Ohio (9/4) … named to the Biletnikoff Award watch list.
2020 (Junior at Syracuse): Started 10 games at wide receiver … named Third Team All-ACC … ranked fifth in the ACC in receptions per game (5.8) … finished sixth in receiving yards per game (73.3) … totaled 58 catches, 733 yards and five touchdowns on the year, all of which led the team … had a touchdown reception in four-straight games (at Pittsburgh 9/19, Georgia Tech 9/26, Duke 10/10 and Liberty 10/17) … caught five passes for 64 yards to lead all receivers at North Carolina (9/12) … hauled in three passes for 72 yards, including a 69-yard touchdown catch at Pittsburgh (9/19) … caught three passes for 64 yards and a touchdown in the home opener versus Georgia Tech (9/26) … six catches for 138 yards and a score against Liberty (10/17) … made seven catches for 61 yards against Boston College (11/7) … made a career-high 13 catches, the second-highest single-game total in the ACC in 2020, for 146 yards and a touchdown against NC State (11/28) … caught eight passes for 69 yards and also had one carry for four yards in the season finale at Notre Dame (12/5).
2019 (Sophomore at Syracuse): Started all 12 games at wide receiver ... ranked second on the team in both catches (37) and receiving yards (559) ... had two touchdown receptions ... averaged 15.1 yards per catch ... made at least one catch in 10 games ... carried the ball twice for 25 yards (12.5 avg.) and was 1-for-2 passing for four yards ... made five catches for 85 yards and attempted the first pass of career at Maryland (9/7) ... against Holy Cross (9/28), recorded first 100-yard receiving game with six catches for 107 yards, including a 47-yard touchdown ... had three catches for a career-high 111 yards and a touchdown versus Pittsburgh (10/18) ... caught a 94-yard touchdown against the Panthers, tied for the second-longest reception in school history ... at Duke (11/16), recorded a career-long 15-yard run and completed a four-yard pass ... made six catches for 58 yards at Louisville (11/23) ... against Wake Forest (11/30), tallied a personal-best seven receptions for 70 yards and rushed once for 10 yards in overtime victory ... member of the Fall 2019 SU Athletic Director's Honor Roll.
2018 (Freshman at Syracuse): Played in 12 games with seven starts at wide receiver ... established Syracuse freshman records for both catches (40) and receiving yards (565) … third among ACC freshmen in receptions ... had seven games with 50+ yards receiving and nine with multiple receptions … scored three touchdowns … made collegiate debut and caught first pass for a 24-yard touchdown against Wagner (9/8) … had three catches for 66 yards, including a season-long grab of 51 yards, at Clemson (9/29) … made four receptions for 64 yards in his first career start at Pittsburgh (10/6) … caught five passes for 51 yards against North Carolina (10/20) … against NC State (10/27), set season highs for receptions (6), receiving yards (86), and caught a 31-yard touchdown … equaled season best with six catches for 58 yards versus Louisville (11/9) … against Notre Dame (11/17), caught five passes for a team-high 78 yards … made three grabs for 45 yards and a touchdown at Boston College (11/24) … had four receptions for 55 yards in the Camping World Bowl against West Virginia (12/28).
Prior to College: Coached by Jack Geisel at Palmyra … played wide receiver and quarterback during scholastic career … listed as one of the top prospects in New Jersey by ESPN (No. 16), the 247Sports composite (No. 21) and Rivals (No. 26) … two-time West Jersey Football League Freedom Division All-Star … PrepStar All-East Region selection … second player in South Jersey football history to pass for 1,000 yards in one season and have at least 1,000 yards receiving in another, according to area football historian Chuck Langerman … as a senior quarterback in 2017, accounted for 29 touchdowns and more than 2,300 yards of offense … passed for 1,550 and 19 touchdowns, while rushing for 979 yards and 10 touchdowns … recorded 990 yards from scrimmage (600 rushing, 390 receiving) and nine touchdowns as a junior, in addition to throwing for 441 yards and seven scores … as a sophomore, caught 51 passes for 1,101 yards (21.6 avg.) and 13 touchdowns … member of the Panthers' basketball and track teams … averaged 25.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 3.6 steals per game for Palmyra as a junior on the basketball court, including a 50-point game against Salem.
Connor Hebbeler
TE • 6-2 • 235
Franklin Lakes, N.J./Bergen Catholic
Career: Played in 24 career games, 17 at Wake Forest and seven at Valparaiso.
2021 (Senior at Valparaiso): Played in seven games … named All-Pioneer Football League honorable mention … totaled 13 receptions for 118 yards and three touchdowns … scored a touchdown on a season-high four catches against Morehead State (11/20) … found the end zone at Butler (11/13) … recorded 39 receiving yards with a touchdown versus Presbyterian (11/6) … registered a two-point conversion against Dartmouth (9/18) … posted two receptions at North Dakota State (9/11) … hauled in two catches for 20 yards at Indiana Wesleyan (9/4).
2020 (Senior at Wake Forest): Played in seven games … saw action in the Duke's Mayo Bowl against Wisconsin (12/30).
2019 (Junior at Wake Forest): Played in eight games … transitioned to tight end and saw action on kickoff return team … played a season-high nine snaps against Clemson (11/16).
2018 (Sophomore at Wake Forest): Played in two games at defensive tackle … made two tackles versus Duke (11/25).
2017 (Freshman at Wake Forest): Did not see game action.
Prior to College: Played for current Rutgers assistant coach Nunzio Campanile at Bergen Catholic … earned three letters … an honorable mention all-league selection … had 16 receptions for 190 yards and two touchdowns as a senior ... recorded 22 tackles on defense ... had the game-winning reception over archrival St. Joseph's in 2015.
Sebastian Jusma
ATH • 6-2 • 200
Teaneck, N.J./Teaneck
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Sam Griffin at Teaneck … played running back, wide receiver and defensive back for the Highwaymen … finished senior season with 77 carries for 685 yards and six touchdowns and added 10 catches for 197 yards and a score … also racked up 85 tackles, two interceptions and a fumble recovery on defense … first-team all-conference by The Star-Ledger … collected 30 tackles and two passes defended along with two receiving touchdowns as a junior in 2020 … also competes in track and field and wrestling at Teaneck … earned all-division honors in the 110 high hurdles by the Bergen Record.
Damon Matthews
DB • 5-10 • 175
Pine Hill, N.J./Overbrook
2020 (Sophomore at Arizona State): Did not see game action.
2019 (Freshman at Arizona State): Did not see game action.
Prior to College: A two-way standout at Overbrook, seeing time at the varsity level in four different seasons … recorded 224 tackles, 10 interceptions, two pass deflections, two fumble recoveries and a forced fumble in 28 career games … collected 2,290 all-purpose yards, returning both a punt and kick for a touchdown during his career … made 112 catches for 1,597 yards and 15 touchdowns as a receiver.
Isaiah Nesmith
WR • 6-4 • 195
West Palm Beach, Fla./American Heritage
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Pat Surtain at American Heritage … played wide receiver during scholastic career helped Patriots to six wins and an appearance in the 2021 FHSAA Football State Championships … finished senior season with 13 catches for 118 yards and three touchdowns … also plays basketball at American Heritage.
David Onuoha
LB • 6-1 • 205
Aberdeen, N.J./Matawan Regional
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Jay Graber at Matawan Regional … played linebacker and running back for the Huskies … posted 157 tackles with 14 for loss and 3.5 sacks as a senior … had at least 12 tackles in all 10 games with a high of 22 at Neptune … rushed for 1,093 yards with 10 touchdowns … had a four-touchdown game at Red Bank Regional and a season-best 215 yards on the ground at Neptune … named Third Team All-Shore Conference on defense and All-Liberty Division on offense in the coaches' vote … had 89 tackles in six games in 2020 to place fourth in the Shore Conference … totaled 74 stops as a sophomore … also competed in track and field.
Ryan Russo
LB • 6-2 • 195
Harrisburg, Pa./Bishop McDevitt
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Jeff Weachter at Bishop McDevitt … played linebacker for the Crusaders … helped Bishop McDevitt to a 12-2 record, a District 3 title and a state championship game appearance in 2021 … finished senior season with 135 tackles, 15 tackles-for-loss, 3.5 sacks and an interception … first team all-state selection by PennLive … Mid-Penn Keystone Coaches Defensive Player of the Year … produced 48 tackles with a sack as a junior in 2020 … also a standout on the hardwood, currently averaging 10 points per game during senior season.
Sean Ryan
WR • 6-3 • 195
Brooklyn, N.Y./Erasmus Hall
Career: Played in 41 career games with 22 starts … owns 81 receptions for 1,044 yards … scored four touchdowns … played last three seasons at West Virginia after starting career at Temple.
2021 (Junior at West Virginia): Played in all 13 games with 10 starts at wide receiver … totaled 25 receptions for 399 yards and three touchdowns … contributed a seven-yard catch in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl versus Minnesota (12/28) … led team with five catches for 87 yards at Kansas (11/27) … caught a seven-yard touchdown pass against Texas (11/20) … had three catches for 39 yards at Kansas State (11/13) … made four catches for 81 yards at TCU (10/23) … caught a 12-yard touchdown at Baylor (10/9) … scored a touchdown versus LIU (9/11) with 77 receiving yards overall … hauled in three catches for 48 yards in the season opener at Maryland (9/4).
2020 (Junior at West Virginia): Played in nine games with six starts at wide receiver … totaled 25 catches for 264 yards … collected four receptions for 48 yards against Army in the Liberty Bowl (12/31) … recorded five catches for a season-best 79 yards at Iowa State (12/5) … hauled in four passes for 31 yards against TCU (11/14) … registered five receptions at Texas (11/7) … contributed three catches at Texas Tech (10/24) … had two receptions for 31 yards versus Kansas (9/26).
2019 (Sophomore at West Virginia): Played in eight games with six starts at wide receiver … named to the Academic All-Big 12 Second Team … totaled 19 receptions for 219 yards … posted three catches for 34 yards at TCU (11/29) … recorded season highs with five receptions for 70 yards against No. 11 Texas (10/5) … added three catches for 20 yards at Kansas (9/21) … picked up four receptions for 38 yards and contributed a 24-yard rush versus NC State (9/14) … started season opener against James Madison (8/31) and collected two passes for 31 yards.
2018 (Freshman at Temple): Played in 11 games … totaled 12 catches for 162 yards with a touchdown … had three receptions for 44 yards against Duke in the Independence Bowl (12/27) … posted a season-high four catches for 57 yards with a touchdown versus East Carolina (10/6) … caught first career pass against Boston College (9/29) … made collegiate debut versus Buffalo (9/8).
Prior to College: Played wide receiver for coach Danny Landberg at Erasmus Hall … a four-year letterwinner, helping team to a 44-8 record with a 12-1 mark as a senior … named conference wide receiver of the year … earned all-city, Brooklyn 44 and all-conference during sophomore, junior and senior seasons.
Willie Tyler III
OL • 6-7 • 330
Racine, Wis./Racine Lutheran/Iowa Western CC
2021 (Junior at Louisiana Monroe): Played in 10 games with nine starts at left tackle.
2020 (Junior at Texas): Did not see game action.
2019 (Sophomore at Texas): Did not see game action … a member of the Big 12 Commissioner's Honor Roll.
2018 (Freshman at Iowa Western CC): Transitioned to offensive line … helped Iowa Western to a 10-1 overall record, including a win in the Graphic Edge Bowl.
Prior to College: Played predominantly as a defensive lineman with limited time on the offensive line in high school … named first-team All-Racine County as a defensive lineman in 2016 … chosen first-team All-Metro Classic Conference … recorded 45 tackles, including 23 solo, 11 tackles-for-loss, 2.5 sacks, three blocked kicks and two interceptions as a senior … helped Racine Lutheran to a 5-4 overall record, including a 4-2 conference mark, and an appearance in the Division 6 playoffs in 2016 … played in just three games as a junior in 2015 because of a foot injury … transferred to Racine Lutheran for sophomore year in 2014 and was part of the defensive line rotation … helped Racine Lutheran to a 6-4 overall record, including a 4-3 conference mark, and an appearance in the Division 6 playoffs in 2014 … attended Case High School in Racine in 2013 and played on the freshman team … also played basketball and threw discus and shot put.
Timmy Ward
WR • 6-0 • 190
Canton, Pa./Canton
Prior to Rutgers: Served as a student manager with the program in 2021 ... an all-state athlete who battled both Hodgkin's Lymphoma and a torn ACL during scholastic career … coached by Tyler Sechrist at Canton ... played wide receiver and defensive back for the Warriors ... granted an extra year of high school eligibility and registered 13 tackles in 2020 before his season was ended with a torn ACL … missed entire 2019 season after Hodgkin's Lymphoma diagnoses … finished junior season in 2018 with 36 catches for 645 yards and seven touchdowns along with two kick return touchdowns … also produced 84 tackles, 11 interceptions and a fumble recovery … earned all-state honors at defensive back … Eastern PA Football Class 1A Player of the Year … garnered all-state accolades as a sophomore in 2017 … also a standout wrestler and finished sixth in his weight class at the PIAA Wrestling State championships.
Dominick Williams
LB • 6-1 • 210
Rahway, N.J./Rahway
Prior to Rutgers: Played linebacker and defensive end at Wesley College from 2018-20 … competed in school's final athletic season during the 2020 spring campaign … named all-conference in the New Jersey Athletic Conference … helped the Wolverines to a 2-1 record during 2020 spring season … produced four tackles with one for loss against Salisbury (3/13) … registered two tackles and a sack against Christopher Newport (4/2) … helped Wesley to 10-1 overall record and a 6-1 mark in NJAC action in 2019 … produced 14 tackles in 10 games played during 2019 season … also played baseball at Wesley … coached by Brian Russo at Rahway … competed in football, baseball and track and field in high school.
Micah Wing
ATH • 6-2 • 200
Wilmington, Del./Salesianum
Prior to Rutgers: Coached by Bill DiNardo at Salesianum … played defensive end and linebacker for the Sallies … helped Salesianum to an 8-3 record and an appearance in the DIAA-3A playoffs … a three-star signee and the No. 3 player in the state by 247Sports … a three-star prospect and the No. 4 overall player from Delaware by Rivals.
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QB
/ FootballTight Ends Coach Scott Vallone - 04/02/26
Thursday, April 02
Defensive Coordinator Travis Johansen - 03/31/26
Tuesday, March 31
Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Coach Kirk Ciarrocca - 03/28/26
Saturday, March 28
Head Coach Greg Schiano Spring Press Conference - 03/27/26
Friday, March 27
