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Rutgers Players to Watch for in the NFL Draft

By Michael Cohen
Adam Korsak of Rutgers football was selected to the Reece's' Senior Bowl. Photo Rutgers Athletics.

The NFL Draft is coming fast tomorrow night in Kansas City. While a lot of attention will be on prospects Bryce Young (Alabama),  Will Levis (Kentucky), and C.J. Stroud (Ohio State), Rutgers will be well represented in this year’s draft. 

Last season was a banner year for Rutgers representation in the draft as Bo Melton and Isiah Pacheco were both drafted in the seventh round of the draft, with Pacheco going 30th overall. Pacheco became a mainstay for the Kanas City Chiefs offense, becoming its starting tailback by mid-season, and was a key player in the Chiefs run to a Super Bowl championship. 

Who will be the next break out Rutgers star in 2023? 

  • Adam Korsak - Punter

    Perhaps the most prized prospect in this year’s draft from Rutgers, Korsak set numerous program and NCAA records by a punter, and was the recipient of the Ray Guy Award back in December. Look for his name to get a call in the mid to late rounds of the draft.

  • Christian Izien - Safety

    Izien is reportedly rising up draft boards. According to Jordan Schultz of the Score, Izien had an interview with the LA Rams, and is on draft boards with the Giants and Jets. The Eagles, Rams, 49ers, Chargers, and Falcons could also be possibilities.

    Izien ran a 4.42 40-run time during the Rutgers Pro Day. At 5-9, he would be considered smallish at safety. That said, Izien can fly around the field, and had 52 tackles and 1.5 sacks last year with Rutgers. In 2020, he had four interceptions.

  • Avery Young - Safety

    Young is another Rutgers safety to watch for, perhaps come day three of the draft. Young was a five year starter at Rutgers, with three years at corner and two years at safety.  Young has been on the radar as an intriguing prospect for a couple of years now. He had 80 tackles last season, including a sack, forced fumble, and interception.

     

  • Aaron Cruickshank - Wide Receiver

    Cruickshank is a speedy receiver who can also play special teams. He reportedly had an impressive showing at the Rutgers Pro Day last month. With Rutgers, Cruickshank hauled in career bests in receptions (42), yards (385) and touchdowns (two). According to Profootballnetwork.com, Cruickshank is going to have to make it on special teams in order to get on a 53-man roster, but his route running and speed makes him an intriguing prospect.

  • Christian Braswell - Cornerback

    Another member of the Rutgers secondary that is getting some serious looks. Reportedly invited to Pro Days for the Giants, Jets, Eagles and Commanders.  He led the team with 11 deflected passes, three picks, and a touchdown return. At 5-11, Braswell is a ball-hawk with six career interceptions.

  • Ifeanyi Maijeh - Defensive Tackle

    The former Temple star transferred to Rutgers prior to the 2021 season, and was one of RU’s leading tacklers last season with 37 total tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble. Said to be very good in the 3-technique style of defense, Maijeh’s  Pro Day numbers were impressive. See below.

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