PISCATAWAY, NJ: Rutgers football’s 2025 recruiting class is making waves as one of the most impactful groups in the Greg Schiano era, securing 27 signees headlined by 10 four-star prospects. The Scarlet Knights’ class currently ranks top-30 nationally and ninth in the Big Ten, signaling a pivotal step in the program’s rebuild.
Four-Star Talent Anchors Rutgers’ 2025 Class
Schiano’s staff landed elite talent across key positions, including:
- Kamar Archie (LB, Ewing, NJ): A 6’1″, 220-pound tackling machine from The Hun School.
- Michael Clayton (DB, Warner Robins, GA): A 6’0″ defensive back with lockdown coverage skills.
- DJ McClary (LB, Jersey City, NJ): A sideline-to-sideline playmaker with Big Ten-ready physicality.
- Ja’Elyne Matthews (OL, Toms River, NJ): A 6’6″, 330-pound mauler projected to anchor the offensive line.
Additional four-star commits like edge rusher Braxton Kyle (Suwanee, GA) and wide receiver Tariq Hayer (Upper Marlboro, MD) underscore Rutgers’ ability to compete for high-ceiling prospects beyond its regional footprint.
New Jersey Roots, National Reach
The Scarlet Knights locked down 10 in-state recruits, reinforcing their dominance in New Jersey’s talent-rich pipeline. However, the class also reflects a strategic national push, with signees from 11 states, including Georgia (3), Florida (2), and Michigan. This blend of local retention and expanded reach aligns with Schiano’s vision to elevate Rutgers’ competitiveness in the Big Ten.
Positional Priorities Shape Recruiting Strategy
Rutgers prioritized trench dominance, securing six defensive linemen and five offensive linemen. Key positional additions include:
- Defensive Line: Renick “Stretch” Dorilas (Fort Lauderdale, FL) brings explosive pass-rush upside.
- Wide Receiver: Five new weapons, including Maryland speedster Vernon Allen III.
- Linebacker: Archie and McClary headline a four-player group poised to bolster run defense.
With 14 transfers also joining the roster, Rutgers aims to balance youthful potential with experienced depth. Analysts from 247Sports and Rivals unanimously rank the class among Schiano’s strongest since his return.
