Signing Day: Darius Gooden signs with Rutgers Football

Rutgers announced a commitment from Defensive Back Darius Gooden from Newark. His NLI was shared by Rutgers on twitter.

Gooden is a solid three-star prospect whose main recruiter was defensive backs coach Noah Joseph. He possesses the length that Rutgers likes at the cornerback position while also being able to explode to deliver big hits. He tracks the ball well both as a corner and when he played wide receiver, being able to go up and get the ball. He demonstrates physical toughness when fighting for 50/50 balls, and a little attitude that is currently lacking in the RU program. He shows the possible upside of Marcus Cooper of the Chicago Bears, who played in a crowded defensive backfield for the Scarlet Knights. Gooden’s not incredibly explosive, but he has good balance and uses his height to make plays. At worst he could be a defensive back that lines up as a corner, nickel, or safety down the line. This is a very solid addition in terms of talent.

Position: DB (6’2”, 195 lbs.)

High School: West Side

Hometown: Newark, NJ

Most notable other offers: UNC, Kentucky, Cincinnati

Gooden arrives at Rutgers to a cornerback room that just lost the recently re-hired Henry Baker to the New York Giants. They need to replace four year starters Bless Austin and Isaiah Wharton, but return Avery Young and the injured Tre Avery. The staff has struggled to develop corners as virtually everyone who has played the position under Ash got game reps as a true freshman. As a result, talented players will be in games right away.

Floor: T.J. Taylor

Most likely: Wayne Warren

Best case: Marcus Cooper

Here are some of Gooden’s highlights:

Welcome to the banks Darius!