Rutgers Football NSD: OLB CJ Onyechi Signs!

West Orange High School linebacker CJ Onyechi made his commitment to Rutgers University official today, signing his National Letter of Intent.

Onyechi announced his commitment on June 16, choosing Rutgers over his other offers from schools such as Harvard, Cornell, and Navy.

CJ Onyechi is a 3-star recruit, ranked as a top-100 outside linebacker in the country, according to 247Sports.

The West Orange product played a true outside linebacker in high school and always seemed to be around the football. Onyechi racked up 156 total tackles in his senior year to go along with 15 sacks and three forced fumbles. He looks a little undersized on film, checking in at 6’1, 210 pounds, but that did not stop him from wrecking havoc in the opponents backfield.

While not a punisher at the point of contact, Onyechi uses great athleticism and body control, along with sound instincts and tackling to bring down ball carriers. Onyechi had tremendous success blitzing off the edge, but did not have to drop into coverage as much as the average D1 linebacker. Onyechi projects as a high-energy, change of pace pass rushing linebacker early in his career, with the frame and athleticism to develop into a three down linebacker as an upperclassmen.

Freshman Impact Index: Although it is easy to see Onyechi’s skill set translate to the next level, I think we might have to wait a year to see them at the linebacker position. Not only could he use a season to add some weight and strength to his six-foot-one body, but he will also have to compete with fellow 2017 linebacker signees Tyshon Fogg and Olakunle Fatukasi. However, do not count Onyechi out as a possible special team ace early on in his career.

Take a look at CJ’s season highlights:

Welcome to the Banks, CJ!

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