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Missouri-native TE Travis Vokolek officially joined Rutgers on Wednesday, signing his National Letter of Intent to join the Scarlet Knights.
#RUK17IGHTED pic.twitter.com/TBrZ6lvL2e
— Rutgers Football (@RFootball) February 1, 2017
New offensive coordinator Jerry Kill has made it clear that he intends to utilize the tight-end position extensively. Head Coach Chris Ash and his staff searched far and wide for a tight-end to fit OC Jerry Kill’s offense, and ultimately landed 6-6, 220 Vokolek.
After receiving an offer from Rutgers on January 6, he announced his decision to join the Scarlet Knights on January 28. In addition to Rutgers, Vokolek held offers from Army, Buffalo, Minnesota, Missouri State, Northeastern, Northern Iowa, South Dakota, and Wyoming.
Vokolek’s best qualities are his hands, route running, and athleticism. Additionally, he has excellent awareness tracking down the football. He also has good size and speed at 6-foot-6 and 220 pounds, however he will likely need to add additional size with the help of strength and conditioning coach Kenny Parker.
Freshman Impact: The Scarlet Knights are lacking depth at the tight-end position which explains the reason Myles Nash has moved from defensive end to tight-end. In addition to Nash, Jerome Washington and Griffin-Stewart will be competing for the tight-end spot. The addition of Vokolek brings much needed depth to this group following the graduations of Matt Flanagan and Nick Arcadiacono, as well as the transfers of Anthony Folkerts and Charles Scarff. Although Vokolek likely needs to add additional size, he has a reasonable chance of seeing the field as a true freshman given his athleticism and lack of depth at the tight-end position.
Take a look at Vokolek's film right here:
Welcome to the banks, Travis!
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