2021 Early Signing Period: Khayri Banton Signs With Rutgers Football

Khayri Banton had been committed since May of this year so it was merely a formality for him to make it official Wednesday. This is a big addition to the 2021 recruiting class for Greg Schiano and the coaching staff.

247 Sports Composite Ranking: 4-star; 6th in NJ; 16th LB & 277th overall nationally

High School Position: OLB (6’2”, 220 lbs.)

Projected college position: SLB

High School: West Side

Hometown: Newark, NJ

Most notable other offers: Miami, Michigan, Tennessee, Virginia Tech

Banton has the speed closer to a defensive back and has an explosive burst that could make him an elite pass rusher. Schiano and his staff seem poised to develop Banton into a versatile and valuable playmaker for the defense. It’s a great addition and major talent upgrade for this unit.

The Rutgers Linebackers had a good season in 2020, a mix of youth, experience, speed, skill, and toughness. Four of the six members of the two-deep are seniors so a lot of changes were expected heading into 2021. The blanket year of eligibility means that some will likely be back, though Tyshon Fogg and Olakunle Fatukasi could test the NFL waters after productive seasons to potentially cap off their careers. Head Coach Greg Schiano, Defensive Coordinator Robb Smith, and Linebacker coach Bob Fraser all have track records of producing NFL talent at the position though, even from two-star players, so there is incentive for high school players to join the ranks even if the room is very full for another season.

Floor: Terry Byrnes

Most likely: Quentin Gause

Potential: Steve Longa

Check out his highlights below:

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