NEWS: In-state offensive lineman Jayden Elijah commits to Rutgers

The commitment of OL Jayden Elijah to Rutgers.

Jayden Elijah, an offensive tackle from Matawan, New Jersey, visited Rutgers a few times last year and is now prepared to attend the university.

The 265-pound, 6-foot-7 Elijah declared on Monday that he has committed to the Scarlet Knights, choosing Rutgers from a long list of offers.

Elijah visited the school multiple times in June after receiving an offer from the Scarlet Knights.

“They think they can actually turn me into an NFL player,” Elijah said in the autumn to 247Sports. I have a strong belief that they can turn me into an NFL player. Considering everything about the facilities and the things they indicated they would work on with me, I have no doubt that they would improve me.”

Nebraska, Florida State, Virginia Tech, Texas A&M, Penn State, Michigan, Maryland, Tennessee, Pittsburgh, Georgia, and Kentucky were among the other schools on his offer list.

Quality control coaches Charlie Noonan and Scott Vallone recruited Elijah, and he developed close bonds with both of them.

When Elijah announced his choice, he mentioned a number of things.

Elijah posted on Instagram, “This was a pretty difficult decision for me to make.” “I just want to start off by thanking my mom and my grandmother, my top priorities, the ones that continue to make everything happen for me on a daily basis.”None of this would be possible without them. One of the main reasons I am able to post this is because of my amazing grandfather, who was the first person to put a football in my hands and to believe in me since I was old enough to touch a ball.

He started me playing football when I was just six years old, and I have loved and been passionate about this sport ever since. R.I.P. onward, and hopefully I’m doing you proud.

“From Little League football to my present high school coaches, I would like to express my gratitude to all of them. I am really appreciative of everything you have taught me and how you have equipped me for the future. You have taught me so much during my journey.”

Elijah included other gratitude in his statement.

“To my family, thank you all for always supporting me, cheering me on and just showing unconditional love whether near or far,” he wrote. “I also want to express my gratitude to all of my friends for encouraging me and pushing me to work harder.

I am fortunate to say that I will be bringing my skills and academics to Rutgers University after giving it serious thought, weighing a plethora of possibilities, having a variety of conversations, and being presented with a plethora of opportunities.

“Huge thank you to head coach Greg Schiano for this amazing opportunity and to coach Charlie Noonan, (offensive line) coach Pat Flaherty, and coach Scott Vallone for making this recruiting process a smooth and successful experience.”