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New Jersey native Charles Zarzecki (@Charles_Z79) became the latest member of the 2017 class this weekend. As a preferred walk-on, Zarzecki doesn't need to sign a National Letter of Intent and will be counted as part of the 2017 class, despite being past National Signing Day.
Excited to announce that I will be continuing my athletic and academic career at Rutgers university for the next four years!! #TheHunt pic.twitter.com/hD8K3bnPQF
— The Beef (@Charles_Z79) February 11, 2017
Hailing from Boonton, NJ, the 6’8” Zarzecki weighs in at 315 pounds bringing some much-needed heft to the defensive line. Listed on Hudl as both an Offensive Tackle and a Nose Guard, his beastly Senior year highlights can be seen below:
The pure power and strength seen as Zarzecki brings down blockers on both sides of the ball. He is relentless in his style of play and is exactly the type of player we need Losing senior captains Darius Hamilton, Julian Pinnix-Odrick, Chris Muller, and Derrick Nelson this season will leave huge holes on both sides of the line. While we already have some strong additions in highly-touted recruits such as Tyshon Fogg and Micah Clark, there is no current recruit who provides both the size and heft Zarzecki brings to the table. Zarzecki’s aggressive style of play aligns strongly with the program Coach Ash want to build, as a lineman who can disrupt both the running and passing game as well as create holes for his running backs.
Interestingly enough, Zarzecki was sought out by Offensive Line Coach Aj Blazek, which gives insight into where Rutgers see his future on the team:
So pumped to get this B1G creature into our crew... @Charles_Z79 is #OneB1GRaRebReed!!! pic.twitter.com/ZlKBT80T9x
— AJ Blazek (@CoachBlaz) February 11, 2017
Versatility will be key as Ash looks to create depth at all of his positions, and Zarzecki fits the bill well. This also provides a connection to another NJ program, as Ash looks to #fencethegarden and keep NJ talent at home.
Another great addition to the 2017 class. Welcome to the Banks, Charles! We can’t wait to see you dominate on the field!