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Western Illinois Football Adds 24 Recruits

Head coach Charlie Fisher announces newest Leathernecks

MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois coach Charlie Fisher announced the 2017 Football signing class on Wednesday (Feb. 1). The Leathernecks received 24 commitments to the program, announced by Fisher in an afternoon press conference.
 
Fisher, in his second year as head coach, welcomed four transfers who joined the program in January.
 
The Leathernecks signed 14 players on offense, eight on defense and two on special teams.
 
Western's recruits hail from 11 states: five from Illinois, four from Florida, three from Indiana, two from Missouri, Minnesota, Tennessee and Georgia, and one recruit hailing from Iowa, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio.
 
"Today was the exclamation point on #PurpleProject17. When our efforts to recruit the best become final.  National Signing Day never, ever gets old. It is the day every coach wakes up with great anticipation and excitement. Today was no different," said Fisher. "I want to commend Jared Elliott, our recruiting coordinator, for his leadership and organization of our recruiting efforts. I want to praise our staff, for their diligent effort to recruit the very best and all their hard work. Recruiting is a team effort, and we did that throughout the process. It is hard work and today we reap the rewards of that effort. I am fired up about this class and the impact they will have on our football team and University."
 
2017 Western Illinois University Football Recruiting Class
Erik Abrell, LS, 6-1, 220, Aurora, Ill. (Aurora Christian)
Fawaz Ayoola, OL, 6-4, 286, Chicago, Ill. (Simeon)
James Bailey, Jr., RB, 5-11, 206, Independence, Mo. (William Chrisman)
Bryce Biddle, DL, 6-1, 267, Plainfield, Ind. (Plainfield)
^Jarid Brown (Sr), WR, 6-0, 193, Huntingtown, Md. (Archbishop Carroll/Ohio)
Brent Carter, DB, 5-10, 172, Valdosta, Ga. (Lowndes)
Isaiah Cherrier, RB, 6-0, 205, Mound, Minn. (Mound Westonka)
^Sam Crosa (Soph), K, 5-8, 140, Dublin, Ohio (Dublin Scioto/Bowling Green)
^Trey Dunkelberger (Sr), TE, 6-5, 235, Shillington, Pa. (Governor Mifflin/Syracuse)
^Lucas Holder (Sr), OL, 6-4, 295, Hillsville, Va. (Carroll County/Liberty)
Austin Hopp, OL, 6-5, 260, Minnetonka, Minn. (Minnetonka)
Maxwell Howell (Soph), DB, 6-1, 182, West Palm Beach, Fla. (Palm Beach Lakes/Ohio)
Nathan Karsjens, TE, 6-6, 250, Ackley, Iowa (AGWSR)
Devon Mondy, WR, 6-3, 190, Jacksonville, Fla. (Edward H. White)
Adam Mullett, QB, 6-5, 195, Fishers, Ind. (Hamilton Southeastern)
Matt Ricketts, OL, 6-2, 260, Galesburg, Ill. (Galesburg)
Michael Ross, OL, 6-2, 305, Lombard, Ill. (Montini Catholic)
J'Len Smith, DL, 6-3, 239, Memphis, Tenn. (Whitehaven)
Luke Terrill, DL, 6-2, 302, Lebanon, Ind. (Lebanon)
Tyler Ward, QB, 6-0, 200, Plano, Ill. (Plano)
Eli Watson, WR, 6-2, 196, Warner Robins, Ga. (Houston County)
Cole Watts, DL, 6-2, 226, Tampa, Fla. (Alonso)
Andre Whitley, DB, 5-11, 198, St. Louis, Mo. (Chaminade College Prep)
Shabar Wilson, DL, 6-0, 287, Memphis, Tenn. (Whitehaven)
^ ENROLLED IN JANUARY
 
Jarid Brown, WR, 6-0, 193, Huntingtown, Md. (Archbishop Carroll/Ohio)
AT OHIO: Four-year member of the Bobcats program… played in nine games during the 2016 season… five catches totaling 49 yards with a long of 14 yards… played against Kent State and Ball State in the 2015 season… saw action versus Eastern Illinois in 2014… redshirted in 2013.
 
HIGH SCHOOL: Two-time WCAC All-Conference selection… recorded 800 yards with 14 touchdowns at wide receiver… had six interceptions at cornerback… during his junior year rushed for more than 600 yards, threw 15 touchdowns and 1,300 passing yards… four-year letterwinner.
 
PERSONAL: Born June 14, 1994… worked with the Thrive Alive, a homeless shelter in Washington, D.C. … his dad has been a major influence, "He pushed me to become a better man every day."… most admires former NFL coach Tony Dungy, "Outside of football he faced diversity and pushed through so I admire him for that."… son of Michael and Tess Smith... cousins with Joe Haden (Cleveland Browns) and Jonathan Haden (UAB)… favorite professional team is the Washington Redskins… favorite musician is Shy Glizzy.
 
MAJOR: Sport Management
 
 
Sam Crosa, K, 5-8, 140, Dublin, Ohio (Dublin Scioto/Bowling Green)
AT BOWLING GREEN: Redshirted in 2015… on the Mid-America Conference championship team in 2015… did not play in 2016… preferred walk-on at BGSU.

HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered three times for coach Karl Johnson and the Dublin Scioto Irish… finished his career by making 30-of-36 field goal attempts… had a career-long of 49 yards… made 112-of-114 career extra points… holds all the career kicking records at Scioto… named All-Conference, All-Metro and All-District in each of his final two seasons… named Second Team All-Ohio in 2014… set school record with 14 made field goals in 2014… helped team advance to state quarterfinals for just the third time in school history.

PERSONAL: Born February 17, 1997… No. 1 sports highlight was kicking three field goals in a state regional final… his father has been a major influence, "He supported me every day and helped me become the man and kicker I am today."… most admires Adam Vinatieri, "He's the greatest kicker of all-time."… enjoys going to the movies and hanging out with friends… favorite professional team is FC Barcelona… favorite music group is Fall Out Boys… son of Fernando and Christina Crosa… father played soccer at Syracuse.
 
MAJOR: Recreation Park and Tourism Administration
 
 
 
Trey Dunkelberger, TE, 6-5, 235, Shillington, Pa. (Governor Mifflin/L.A. Pierce College/Syracuse)
AT SYRACUSE: Spent two years with the Orange… moved from tight end to defensive end throughout his career… in 2015 saw action against Rhode Island… ACC and SU Athletic Director's Honor Roll.
 
AT L.A. PIERCE COLLEGE: Played for a year at L.A. Pierce College, earning All-America honors.
 
HIGH SCHOOL: Caught seven passes for 163 yards and three touchdowns during his senior year… Second Team All-Berks County… selected to participate in the 2013 Berks Senior Football Classic… also participated in lacrosse and track… earned All-Conference in the 4x100 relay in high school… won a county title in track and football… played football for coach Mic Vecchio.
 
PERSONAL: Born July 22, 1994 in Kalamazoo, Michigan… volunteered work with Uplifting Athletes and FCA… No. 1 sports highlight was a 26-yard touchdown in the third round of the playoffs… his father has been a major influence, "He always knew I had it in me, even when I didn't."… most admires John Schaffer, his trainer back home, "He made me the person I am today."… enjoys country concerts and the beach… favorite professional teams are all the teams in Philadelphia… favorite musician is Meek Mill… son of Ron and Kelly Dunkelberger.
 
MAJOR: Human Development (bachelor's), Sport Management (master's)
 
 
Lucas Holder, OL, 6-4, 295, Hillsville, Va. (Carroll County/Liberty)
AT LIBERTY: Four-year member of the Flames' program… helped Liberty win three Big South Championship titles (2013, 2014, 2016)… Second Team All-Big South Conference in 2016… Roanoke Times First Team All-State… FCS ADA Academic All-Star in 2016… started the first 10 games of the 2016 season… CoSIDA Academic All-District in 2016… 2016 Big South Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year… started three different positions on the offensive line in 2016… graded out as the second-highest offensive lineman and also ranked second on the team in knockdowns… named to the Big South Presidential Honor Roll four years… started the first five games in 2015 before suffering a season-ending injury… helped Liberty to a 'Top 20' national ranking his sophomore year in passing offense and time of possession… played in 12 of 14 games as a redshirt-freshman (2014 season)… helped the Flames rank second in the Big South in fewest sacks allowed… offense ranked second in the BSC in total offense and scoring offense… earned his bachelor's degree in Government (in just three years), finishing with a 3.69 GPA December 2015 graduate… volunteer participation in: Team Impact, Liberty Flames Academic Affairs for Athletics, Relay for Life, Rashad Jennings Foundation, and Gardner Memorial Cemetery… earned a master's degree in Public Policy/Public Administration with a 3.92 GPA.
 
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered four years in football, three in basketball and also participated in baseball and soccer… All-Southwest District as a junior (Honorable Mention) and senior (First Team)… senior year selected First Team All-Region IV, Roanoke Times All-Timesland team and VHSCA Group AA Division IV Second Team All-State… participated in the National Underclassman Combine All-American game… CCHS 'Offensive Lineman of the Year'… CCHS 'Sportsmanship Athlete of the Year'… member of National Honor Society, National Society of High School Scholars, Students Against Destructive Decisions and FFA.
 
PERSONAL: Born August 8, 1994… No. 1 sports highlight was having his parents in the stands for every game of his college career… his family have been a major influence, "The major influences in my life have been my father, mother, brother Morgan, grandfather Delton and grandmother Mary. They have all pushed me and encouraged me to do my God-given best although many times I did not believe in myself. I am eternally indebted to them."… most admires former offensive line coach Dennis Wagner, "He demanded excellence in all facets of life. In addition, he cared about the players he coached."… also admires his former HS coach Casey Burcham and his father… most admires former NFL quarterback Michael Vick, "Not only was he an unbelievable talent, but he made great efforts to reshape his life and did countless community service efforts after his incarceration for illegal dogfighting. His story shows the importance of forgiveness."… enjoys hanging out with friends, listening to music, making people laugh, staying up-to-date with politics, government, world news and sports… favorite professional teams are: Atlanta Falcons, Miami Heat, Washington Nationals and Washington Capitals… lists favorite music as: George Strait, Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Coldplay, Jay-Z, Chris Brown, Migos and Waka Flocka Flame… son of Richard and Susan Holder.
 
MAJOR: Business Administration (master's program)
 
 
HIGH SCHOOL SIGNEES
 
Erik Abrell, LS, 6-1, 220, Aurora, Ill. (Aurora Christian)
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in basketball (3), track (1) and football (4)… two-way starter his junior and senior year (linebacker and right tackle)… started at receiver his sophomore year… won the program's Tommy Award his senior year, given to the player on the team with the most character… named Special Teams 'Player of the Year'… ranked 31st in the nation and earned 4.5 stars by Chris Rubio of Rubio Long Snapping… played for coach Dave Beebe.
 
PERSONAL: Born April 28, 1999 in Oswego… No. 1 sports highlight was recording his first career interception against DePaul Prep and running it back for 40 yards… worked with Mission Impossible, a week long mission trip… coaches Dave and (WIU football alum) Don Beebe have been a major influence and coaches he most admires, "They are great men and role models, and have great knowledge of football."… enjoys playing chess and watching The Office… favorite professional teams are the Chicago Cubs, Bears and Bulls… favorite musical group is Hillsong Worship… son of Ronald Abrell and Michelle Abrell.
 
MAJOR: Communication Disorders
 
 
Fawaz Ayoola, OL, 6-4, 286, Chicago, Ill. (Simeon)
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in volleyball, wrestling and football… voted team captain… played for coach Dante Culbreath… helped Simeon win the Chicago City championship his senior year.
 
PERSONAL: Born April 24, 1999… volunteered with a homeless shelter, environmental rescuer, local tutor and student mentor… No. 1 sports highlight was his senior year game versus Walter Payton HS… his parents have been a major influence, "They deserve the world."… most admires Laremy Tunsil, "His work ethic is great, his technique is amazing and my goal is to become greater than him."… enjoys hanging out with friends, eating, sleeping and working out… favorite professional team is the Dallas Cowboys… favorite musician is Lil Herb… son of Latifou and Rashidat Ayoola.
 
MAJOR: Computer Science and Business
 
 
 
James Bailey, Jr., RB, 5-11, 206, Independence, Mo. (William Chrisman)
HIGH SCHOOL: First Team All-State honors in football… three-time All-State performer in track and field… was a State track medalist five times… won a State title in track and field… named 'Offensive Player of the Year'… scored the most touchdowns in school history… holds the record for the longest touchdown scored… gained 1,532 rushing yards, 910 passing yards and 2,442 total yards… scored 22 touchdowns on the ground and threw for nine TDs… played for coach Matt Perry.
 
PERSONAL: Born April 22, 1999… volunteered to paint elementary schools… most admires Michael Cobbins, "He has taught me a lot about how to be a man and has been encouraging and supporting me since I was in the 6th grade,"… also most admires coach Willie Horn, "He has great knowledge about the game of football, and has a deep passion for the game. It has shown when he coaches. He was a good athlete and he knows what it takes to be great."… enjoys shopping, playing pool, hanging out with friends and playing video games… favorite professional team is the Kansas City Chiefs… favorite musician is Young Thug… son of James Sr. and Polly Bailey.
 
MAJOR: Sport Management
 
 
 
Bryce Biddle, DL, 6-1, 267, Plainfield, Ind. (Plainfield)
HIGH SCHOOL: A two-time Class 5A All-State selection by IFCA… Associated Press All-State… two-time First Team All-Mid State Conference… two-time All-Hendricks County… lettered four years in football and four in wrestling… was a Mid State Conference champion in wrestling… placed fourth in state… Hendricks County champion… three-time Regional qualifier and captured a Sectional title… two-time Semi-State qualifier… played football for coach Brian Woodard.
 
PERSONAL: Born August 14, 1998 in Indianapolis, Indiana… No. 1 sports highlight was placing fourth at the state wrestling tournament… volunteered to help move books at an elementary school… his dad has been a major influence, "He has always been there to help me through the tough times and my finest moments, and always taught me that there is always something you can do better."… most admires New England head coach Bill Belichick, "He is always stressing to do the little things great."… enjoys collecting video game consoles and hanging out with friends… favorite professional team is the New England Patriots… favorite music group is Staind… son of John and Wendi Biddle.
 
MAJOR: Agriculture
 
 
 
Brent Carter, DB, 5-10, 172, Valdosta, Ga. (Lowndes)
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in football for coach Randy McPherson… First Team All-Region… First Team All-Class 7A… twice named team captain.
 
PERSONAL: Born June 30, 1999… No. 1 sports highlight was blocking a field goal attempt to win the game… his family have been a major influence, "Growing up it was just me, my little sister and oldest sister. Watching my mom struggle motivated me to do something that would help her and not have to have my family struggle."… most admires his cornerback coach, Coach Demps, "My senior year was my first time playing cornerback, so everything I know about corner he taught me."… comes from a family of NFL players, including: Derrick Gaffney (1978-84, 1987), Jabar Gaffney (2002-12), Kiwaukee Thomas (2000-08), and Kenneth Durden (currently Oakland Raiders)… hobbies include engineering music and spending time with family… favorite professional team is the Miami Dolphins… favorite music groups are Lil Durk and Quavo… son of DeUndre Carter and Brendaliz Sanchez Morales.
 
MAJOR: Undecided
 
 
 
Isaiah Cherrier, RB, 6-0, 205, Mound, Minn. (Mound Westonka)
HIGH SCHOOL: All-Conference… two-time All-District… two-time District 'Offensive Most Valuable Player'… two-time All-State… two-time All-Metro… Minnesota Vikings All-State team… gained 2,061 career yards (5.8 yards per carry) and scored 33 touchdowns on the ground… caught 59 passes for 808 yards and 13 TDs… completed both of his career passing attempts for 67 yards and a score… on defense logged 183 tackles, 22 tackles for a loss, six sacks, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, two returned for a touchdown, blocked three kicks, had five interceptions (2 returns for a TD), and 16 pass deflections… averaged 17.2 yards per kickoff return (413 yards) and 26.2 yards per punt return (603 yards, 4 TDs)… earned 10 letters in football, basketball and track… played for coach Nick David.
 
PERSONAL: Born December 1, 1998 in Minnetonka, Minnesota… volunteered time with Link Crew, Senior Lunch Bunch, Unified Track and Yes I Can… No. 1 sports highlight was participating in the Minnesota All-Star game… his parents have been a major influence, "They have given me endless support since I was little."… most admires Eric Berry, "For his will to fight through adversity."… enjoys sports, working out, and spending time with friends and family… favorite professional team is the Minnesota Vikings… favorite musician is Drake… son of Clifton and Jessica Cherrier.
 
MAJOR: Sports Science
 
 
 
Austin Hopp, OL, 6-5, 260, Minnetonka, Minn. (Minnetonka)
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in football and track… played for coach Dave Nelson... Honorable Mention All-District in 2016… team won the Class 6A Section championship in 2016.
 
PERSONAL: Born April 23, 1999 in Highland Park, Illinois… volunteered time with Football Tackle Cancer, Polar Plunge, West Metro Warriors golf event for the Challenged and the Food Shelf… No. 1 sports highlight was being named Offensive Line Team Captain his senior year… his father has been a major influence, "He is my greatest inspiration and has believed in my potential from day one."… most admires his HS football coach Dave Nelson, "He's a player's coach with a great passion for football, and demonstrates tremendous desire to improve his community."… his cousin Ryan Hopp was part of the Illinois Wesleyan Division III National Championship team in 2010… enjoys sports, football, basketball and throwing… favorite professional teams are the Chicago Bears, Cubs and Blackhawks… favorite music is Logic… son of Eric and Alana Hopp.
 
MAJOR: Liberal Arts
 
 
 
Maxwell Howell, DB, 6-1, 182, West Palm Beach, Fla. (Palm Beach Lakes/Ohio)
AT OHIO: Two year member of the Bobcats program… played in five games during the 2016 season, making two tackles.
 
HIGH SCHOOL: Named a three star prospect (ESPN, Scout Recruiting, and 247 Sports)… ranked for most of the year within the Top 100 CB nationally on the ESPN list… highest rating was 29th at cornerback by 247 Sports… was ranked the number one cornerback prospect in Palm Beach County and a Top 10 DB recruit in South Florida by the Sun Sentinel… First Team All-Conference as a junior… also competed in track.
 
PERSONAL: His family has been a major influence, "I want to make sure I leave out of college with a degree and give them the chance to watch me play the sport they helped me so much through."… most admires his uncles, "They are who I watched when I was growing up."… his relatives Dave Howell (University of Miami) and O'Neil Howell (BYU) both played college football… enjoys fishing and hanging out with family and friends… favorite music group is Ace Hood… son of Kirk and Vivvene Howell.
 
MAJOR: Geographic Information System

 
 
Nathan Karsjens, TE, 6-6, 250, Ackley, Iowa (AGWSR)
HIGH SCHOOL: Earned four varsity football letters and four in basketball… three year track letterwinner and lettered his junior year in baseball… named District MVP as a freshman… All-District honors all four years, twice earning a First Team accolade… INA All-State honors as a punter for three years, earning First Team honors in 2014 and 2016… played 8-man football his senior year… four-time Academic All-District selection… Second Team All-State honors by the Des Moines Register as a punter his sophomore year… unanimous First Team All-Conference honors his sophomore and junior year… rushed for 1,000 yards and 17 touchdowns and threw for nearly 800 yards and 13 TDs… caught seven passes for 86 yards… averaged 39 yards on 82 career punts… kicked 23 extra points… recovered two interceptions and two fumbles… scored his 1,000th career point (currently in his senior year)… named to the IBCA Class 1A Sub State team his junior year… two-year State track qualifier in the discus, taking second place his junior year… set the school record in the discus… finished 16th in the discus at the 2016 Drake Relays… played football for coach James Koop.
 
PERSONAL: Born August 25, 1998 in Iowa Falls, Iowa… volunteered time with Little Buddies, Junior Firefighter and local Bank board… No. 1 sports highlight was breaking the school discus record at the state track meet his junior year, throwing 175-3 and breaking the record by 19 feet… his brother Josh has been a major influence, "He is 15 years older than me and I grew up watching him play sports. He has a great work ethic and is passionate about the things he's involved in. He has always been there for me."… most admires his dad, Dan, "I admire the way he values his family and faith. He coached me most of my athletic career and does a great job of encouraging me yet challenging me to work hard and get better."… his brother Josh played football and track at Wartburg. His cousin Joe Green played basketball for South Dakota State and UNI… enjoys video games, golf, movies, basketball and throwing the discus… favorite professional team is the Pittsburgh Steelers… favorite musician is Drake… son of Dan and Martha Karsjens.
 
MAJOR: Education
 
 
 
Devon Mondy, WR, 6-3, 190, Jacksonville, Fla. (Edward H. White)
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in football and basketball… named Class 6A Conference 'Player of the Year'… First Team All-Gateway… Second Team All-City… team's 'Most Dynamic Offensive Player'… holds the school record for most receiving yards in a season and receiving yards in a game (227)… 714 yards and eight touchdowns on the year… played for coach Kevin Sullivan.
 
PERSONAL: Born September 10, 1999… people who doubted him have been a major influence on his career, "People who doubted me early on in my career, they made me determined to become what they said I couldn't."… most admires coach Sullivan, "Just the way he has been coaching for so long and is consistent and his love for the game."… enjoys music, basketball and NBA 2K… favorite professional teams are the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Cavaliers… favorite musicians are G herbo, lucci, and tee grizzley… son of Derrick Mondy and Michelle Walton.
 
MAJOR: Sport Management
 
 
 
Adam Mullett, QB, 6-5, 195, Fishers, Ind. (Hamilton Southeastern)
HIGH SCHOOL: First Team All-State, First Team All-County and First Team All-Conference honors… named Academic All-State… during his senior year on varsity threw for 2,682 yards and 18 touchdowns… set the school record in season passing yards… also holds the single-game record with 463 passing yards… averaged 260.3 yards per game… team won the HCC Conference championship (2015-16)… played for coach Scott May.
 
PERSONAL: Born September 15, 1998 in Indianapolis, Indiana… volunteered for three years with the 1st Phase Community House… No. 1 sports highlight was a fourth quarter comeback, driving 80 yards and throwing the game-winning touchdown pass on a broken play with 30 seconds remaining… his high school QB coach Rob Cutter has been a major influence, "He has always believed in me and shaped me into a mature young man."… most admires Tim Tebow, "He is an unbelievable person. I admire his faith, leadership and skill as a quarterback."… enjoys working out and listening to music… favorite professional teams are the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers and Chicago Cubs… favorite music group is the Red Hot Chili Peppers… son of Greg Mullett and Heather Braun.
 
MAJOR: Finance or Accountancy
 
 
 
Matt Ricketts, OL, 6-2, 260, Galesburg, Ill. (Galesburg)
HIGH SCHOOL: Three-time Western Big Six All-Conference selection… earned Academic All-Conference honors… named All-State… Champaign News-Gazette All-State... played for coach Tim Dougherty… lettered four years in track and football.
 
PERSONAL: Born April 5, 1999 in Galesburg… former offensive lineman Joe Pyszka has been a major influence, "He has been an awesome influence. He has taught me many things about football and life, and a few wrestling moves."… most admires his brother Ryan, a four-year Leatherneck letterwinner, "I have grown up watching him and he has been an exceptional role model for me."… his brother Ryan played at WIU from 2011-15 and his cousin Nathan Ricketts played at Central Michigan from 2012-16… enjoys hanging out on the farm, hunting and joking around… favorite professional teams are the Chicago Blackhawks and Cubs… favorite musician is George Strait… son of Duane and Cindy Ricketts.
 
MAJOR: Agricultural Business
 
 
 
Michael Ross, OL, 6-2, 305, Lombard, Ill. (Montini Catholic)
HIGH SCHOOL: Earned All-Conference honors in the CCL Green… Dupage County All-Area… Academic All-Conference… recorded seven sacks, 20 tackles for a loss and a fumble recovery… helped Montini Catholic win the Class 6A State title in 2015… lettered in football and track… played for coach Christopher Andriano.
 
PERSONAL: Born August 17, 1999 in Oak Park, Illinois… volunteered time with the children's choir in his church as the assistant director… No. 1 sports highlight was the 2015 State championship game… his sisters have been a major influence, "They showed me what it's like to become a Division I athlete."… most admires NFL standout JJ Watt, "He is the embodiment of hard work. He's one of the top defensive linemen in the NFL and he got there by doing things the right way. JJ is also a humanitarian and is as great off the field and he is on the field."… has a sister Rachael playing basketball at Radford University and another sister Sara playing basketball for Lindenwood University… enjoys playing basketball, working out with friends and playing Madden on X-box one… favorite professional teams are the Chicago Cubs, Bears, Bulls and Blackhawks… favorite musician is J Cole… son of Michael and Karen Ross.
 
MAJOR: Business Finance
 
 
 
J'Len Smith, DL, 6-3, 239, Memphis, Tenn. (Whitehaven)
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in football… played for coach Rodney Saulsberry… team won the Class 6A State title in 2016… his senior year finished with seven sacks, 63 tackles and three forced fumbles.
 
PERSONAL: His dad has been a major influence, "He has pushed me past my limits everyday."… most admires his position coach at Whitehaven, Coach Harmon, "He has the ability to adjust the defense in a way where everyone on the field is efficient, and in a position to utilize their strong points."… enjoys reading, sleeping, playing Xbox and basketball… favorite professional teams are the Los Angeles Lakers and Pittsburgh Steelers… favorite musician is Drake… son of Artavius Smith and Janniece Garner.
 
MAJOR: Nursing
 
 
 
Luke Terrill, DL, 6-2, 302, Lebanon, Ind. (Lebanon)
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered four years in football, two in basketball and once in track… Second Team All-Conference his sophomore year… two-time Scholar-Athlete award… twice named team captain… recorded 150 tackles in his career, 11.5 sacks and blocked two field goals… played for coach Neil Kazmeirzak… basketball team won the conference championship in 2015-16 season.
 
PERSONAL: Born February 9, 1999 in Indianapolis, Indiana… volunteered with the Salvation Army, Shalom House, Feed the Hungry, and Wheeler Mission organizations… No. 1 sports highlight was breaking a double-team to then sack the quarterback of the county rival, swinging the momentum in a tight game… his uncle Craig has been a major influence, "He and I share the love for the same game. He demonstrated the success and hard work by making his dream come true. He had a successful college career at Purdue and played seven years with the Seattle Seahawks."… most admires Cliff Avril, "He has a championship work ethic, a leader and a great player."… his father played college basketball at IUPUI and his sister plays basketball at Franklin College… enjoys hunting, fishing, video games and hanging with family and friends… favorite professional team is the Seattle Seahawks… favorite musicians are Garth Brooks and Lil Wayne… son of Troy and Kris Terrill.
 
MAJOR: Construction Management
 
 
 
Tyler Ward, QB, 6-0, 200, Plano, Ill. (Plano)
HIGH SCHOOL: Three-time All-Conference… Champaign Gazette All-State… twice named football team captain… earned All-Conference honors in baseball… three-year letterwinner in football, four years in baseball… recorded more than 4,000 passing yards in high school with 43 touchdowns, and added 1,116 rushing yards and 17 TDs… played for coach Brad Kunz… led Plano to a playoff berth his senior year.
 
PERSONAL: Born May 18, 1999… his dad has been a major influence, "He has always pushed me to do my best and has always given me every opportunity to excel."… most admires former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning, "He studied the game harder than anyone else. He always did as much as it took to be prepared for the game."… enjoys working out and hanging out with friends… favorite professional teams are the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs and Blackhawks… favorite music group is the Red Hot Chili Peppers… son of Jim and Barb Ward.
 
MAJOR: Exercise Science
 
 
 
Eli Watson, WR, 6-2, 196, Warner Robins, Ga. (Houston County)
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in football, track and basketball… named Second Team All-Middle Georgia… Honorable Mention All-Georgia Sports Writers Association Class 6A… Region 1 Class 6A First Team honors on offense and Second Team kickers… accumulated 1,872 receiving yards on 83 receptions with 19 receiving touchdowns (10 his senior year)… played for coach Von Lassiter.
 
PERSONAL: Born September 9, 1998 in Tampa, Florida… No. 1 sports highlight was catching a 55-yard touchdown before halftime in the Allatoona game in the state playoffs… his family has been a major influence, "They have pushed me more and supported me in the sports that I have participated in."… most admires New York Giants receiver Odell Beckham, "Off the field he is so laid back and calm. But on the field he is a totally different person and a beast."… his step-brother Shawn Porter is a pro boxer in Las Vegas… enjoys playing Xbox, hanging out with friends and being with family… favorite professional teams are the Miami Heat and Baltimore Ravens… favorite music is Drake… son of Lerry and Yocia Watson.
 
MAJOR: Business
 
 
 
Cole Watts, DL, 6-2, 226, Tampa, Fla. (Alonso)
HIGH SCHOOL: Second Team All-Conference honors… selected to the County All-Star game… named the school's 'Defensive MVP'… played for coach Reggie Crume.
 
PERSONAL: Born May 1, 1999… volunteered with the Police Athletic League in St. Petersburg… No. 1 sports highlight was scoring on a punt drive… his father and grandfather have been a major influence, "They always make sure I'm focused and push me to be the best person I can possibly be."… most admires Coach Crume, "Even though he has only been the head coach for about four weeks, he has done so many things for us as far as getting us recruited and exposure. He genuinely cares for all of his players and it speaks volumes to his character and the type of person he is."… his dad had a brief career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and a cousin Regan Upshaw plays football at Clemson… enjoys fishing, watching movies, video games, training and hanging out with friends… favorite professional team is the Seattle Seahawks… favorite music group is Kodak Black… son of Carl and Elizibeth Watts.
 
MAJOR: Criminal Justice
 
 
 
Andre Whitley, DB, 5-11, 198, St. Louis, Mo. (Chaminade College Prep)
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in football, basketball, and track… First Team All-State… First Team All-District… earned First Team All-Conference honors at defensive back and as an athlete… Second Team All-USA Missouri team… played for coach Antoine Torrey.
 
PERSONAL: Born January 23, 1999… volunteer work at Dempsey's home for Veterans, and worked with St. Louis Arch helping challenged adults with sports… No. 1 sports highlight was the last interception in his high school career, a quarterfinals game against Vianny HS… his dad and uncle have been a major influence, "They were big sports fanatics and always pushed for me to be the best."… most admires New York Jets player, and his cousin, Sheldon Richardson, "My goal is to be in the position in a couple of years that he is in today."… enjoys basketball, track, football, paintball and bowling… favorite professional teams are the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Lakers… favorite music group is Lil Uzi Vert… son of Andre and Cecilia Whitley.
 
MAJOR: Exercise Science
 
 
 
Shabar Wilson, DL, 6-0, 287, Memphis, Tenn. (Whitehaven)
HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in baseball and football… named All-Shelby County Metro… earned All-State and All-District honors… team won the Class 6A State title… played for coach Rodney Saulsberry.
 
PERSONAL: His father has been a major influence, "Because of his incredible talents and his love for the game."… most admires his defensive coordinator, Coach Harmon, "He loved all of us like his own children and kept it real with everyone of us."… his relative Barry Wilson plays football at Austin Peay… enjoys video games and swimming… favorite professional team in the New England Patriots… favorite musician is Drake… son of Barry and Sharon Wilson.
 
MAJOR: Business
 
 
 
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Players Mentioned

Trey Dunkelberger

#7 Trey Dunkelberger

TE
6' 4"
Senior
Governor Mifflin
Sam Crosa

#32 Sam Crosa

K
5' 8"
Sophomore
Dublin Scioto
Jarid Brown

#1 Jarid Brown

WR
6' 0"
Senior
Archbishop Carroll
Lucas Holder

#70 Lucas Holder

OL
6' 5"
Senior
Carroll County
Adam Mullett

#11 Adam Mullett

QB
6' 5"
Freshman
Hamilton Southeastern
Bryce Biddle

#43 Bryce Biddle

DT
6' 1"
Freshman
Plainfield
Tyler Ward

#12 Tyler Ward

QB
6' 0"
Freshman
Plano
Eli Watson

#14 Eli Watson

WR
6' 2"
Freshman
Houston County
Andre Whitley

#4 Andre Whitley

DB
5' 11"
Freshman
Chaminade College Prep
Shabar Wilson

#96 Shabar Wilson

DT
6' 0"
Freshman
Whitehaven
Austin Hopp

#75 Austin Hopp

OL
6' 5"
Freshman
Minnetonka
Matt Ricketts

#65 Matt Ricketts

OL
6' 2"
Freshman
Galesburg

Players Mentioned

Trey Dunkelberger

#7 Trey Dunkelberger

6' 4"
Senior
Governor Mifflin
TE
Sam Crosa

#32 Sam Crosa

5' 8"
Sophomore
Dublin Scioto
K
Jarid Brown

#1 Jarid Brown

6' 0"
Senior
Archbishop Carroll
WR
Lucas Holder

#70 Lucas Holder

6' 5"
Senior
Carroll County
OL
Adam Mullett

#11 Adam Mullett

6' 5"
Freshman
Hamilton Southeastern
QB
Bryce Biddle

#43 Bryce Biddle

6' 1"
Freshman
Plainfield
DT
Tyler Ward

#12 Tyler Ward

6' 0"
Freshman
Plano
QB
Eli Watson

#14 Eli Watson

6' 2"
Freshman
Houston County
WR
Andre Whitley

#4 Andre Whitley

5' 11"
Freshman
Chaminade College Prep
DB
Shabar Wilson

#96 Shabar Wilson

6' 0"
Freshman
Whitehaven
DT
Austin Hopp

#75 Austin Hopp

6' 5"
Freshman
Minnetonka
OL
Matt Ricketts

#65 Matt Ricketts

6' 2"
Freshman
Galesburg
OL