Duquesne Camp Shines in the Rain
The skies opened up, but the doors to the Bluff stayed wide open.
Duquesne’s June 6 football camp brought in athletes from across the East Coast, including plenty who crossed state lines and boarded jets to be there. There was a steady rain like usual in the Steel City, but the Dukes managed to run a full camp of competitive reps, hands-on coaching, and crucial evaluations that led to several offers in the days following.
For Orlando hybrid defender Zeke Gunn, the wet weather didn’t dampen the experience. In fact, it added to it. (He’d fit in.)
“It rained the whole time but that made it kinda fun,” Gunn said. “The coaches were really coaching a lot and seemed to care a lot about technique and fundamentals.”
Gunn, who plays safety, outside linebacker, and wide receiver, was moved around throughout the day. Coach Jacobs had him work with the safeties before shifting him to linebacker, then even got him some WR reps.
“I won some 1v1s,” Gunn offered. “All the coaches were great.”
After a tour of the campus and some time to digest the visit, Gunn got the call he’d been waiting on.
“I thought I did well, but with it taking a couple days, I definitely got nervous,” he said. “Very happy he called me today and offered.”
That same day, another athlete from Orlando got his own good news. Akeevin Anderson, also of Orlando Christian Prep impressed throughout the camp and followed up with a Monday phone call from the Dukes' staff.
“The conversation was good,” Anderson reported. “He told me I’m one of the highest kids on their board right now and that the whole staff loved my film and that I’m a baller!”
Anderson had already felt wanted at camp, calling the full staff “very welcoming” and giving particular credit to Coach Jacobs and Head Coach Jerry Schmitt.
Meanwhile, Carlos Diggs, a versatile athlete from nearby Gateway High School, didn’t need directions to campus. What he did need was an opportunity to compete, and the camp on the Bluff offered that.
“It was great, a lot of great coaching, with a lot of great drills, and good competition,” Diggs said. “My experience was good except all the rain, but you can’t choose what conditions you play in on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays.”
Diggs confirmed that while his recruitment remains open, the idea of playing for his hometown school “does excite” him. Gateway has long been a talent-producing program in the Pittsburgh region, and the Dukes clearly took note.
Not every camper received an offer. Not every camper needed one right away. But the feedback and chance to compete in front of a D1 coaching staff is worth the effort. The Dukes certainly gave out offers, but in one case, they even got something back. Local standout ATH Will Martin of Seton LaSalle was offered and wasted no time letting Dukes Nation know that he had finally gotten the offer he’d been waiting on. Martin committed, turning down multiple FBS programs to stay home and compete in Pittsburgh. This is the first commit in 2026 that we’ve caught in the NEC. Martin came to the Bluff, competed, showed the coaches what he could do, and came away with the offer he’d dreamed of. For their part, the Dukes have their first piece to build around for the future.
And that’s how you win football games up here in the Northeast: recruit, evaluate, and develop. Rain or shine.
CCSU Lands FAU Transfer OL Marchbank
Central Connecticut State may have waited until late May to offer Maddox Marchbank, but it looks like the Blue Devils got their guy.
The former Florida Atlantic offensive lineman, capable of anchoring a line at either center or guard, announced his transfer to CCSU with four full years of eligibility remaining. His recruitment had no shortage of interest: in-conference and in-state rival New Haven extended an offer, Tennessee State jumped in, and Fordham made their push with an in-home visit. But CCSU was the final program to offer, doing so on May 27. And Marchbank’s patience? It might have made all the difference in the world.
“A couple things stood out to me while I was there,” Marchbank said. “The staff really seems to care about the players more than I’ve ever seen and Coach Lechtenberg builds a great relationship with everyone. Every time we walked past a player, he stopped to talk to them. He also goes above and beyond making sure he can get as much as possible for the players.”
That genuine connection helped tip the scale. So did the culture. But winning helps, too. And as 2024 showed, you can do a lot of that in Hard Hittin’ New Britain.
In a league where Duquesne and LIU both fielded dominating offensive lines, no team controlled the line of scrimmage like Central Connecticut State. The Blue Devils mauled opponents up front in 2024, and while they’re reloading with a new offensive line coach, the plan hasn’t really changed. You win in the trenches, especially in cold-weather ball, and CCSU plans to keep it that way. CCSU can’t afford to lose a step- while LIU saw some of their talented linemen head to FBS, Duquesne looks to even the score with CCSU in 2025. Some things in football are universal, and the necessity of strong play on the offensive line is as true as gravity.
“The parts that made it the place for me were how nice the area is, how much the coaches care about the players, the players all love it there,” Marchbank said. “And the fact the program got turned around so quickly with Coach Lechtenberg. I want to go somewhere we can wreck the conference and make a postseason run.”
For CCSU, Marchbank brings FBS pedigree and the potential to develop into an interior anchor and the cornerstone of a monster line. For Marchbank, it’s a chance to grow inside a proven system, one where offensive linemen don’t just get recruited. Dominate on the offensive line at Central Connecticut State, and you’ll have the chance to crack it anywhere in the country, including the Big Ten. That’s the goal for some players, but for now Marchbank is focused on a repeat championship run for the Blue Devils.
And while CCSU was the last to offer, it was the one that hit home. Sometimes, it’s good to be first. But in Marchbank’s case, it was even better to be last.
Plenty of Reps, Real Results: RMU Mega Camp Delivers for WPIAL Talent
School is still in session.
The first Saturday of June usually signals the start of summer break. For high school football players in Western Pennsylvania (that’s a proper noun), it was more than the last week of school.
It was an opportunity.
RMU hosted its Mega Camp on June 1, and by all accounts, the event lived up to its name. Five FBS programs were in attendance, but RMU was the only NEC team on-site. That gave them the advantage of getting a firsthand look at the region’s top talent, with no other conference rivals on the gridiron. The early evaluations (and some early offers) might be the difference in recruiting down the line.
Among the biggest winners was Kaiyen Mbandi, a versatile lineman from Gateway High School in Monroeville. Just a short drive across the city from RMU’s Moon Township campus, Mbandi didn’t waste the chance to showcase what he’s been building in the offseason.
“The camp was great. I loved it there and I loved competing!” Mbandi told NEC Blitz. “It was really a product of all the training I’ve been doing. During the one-on-ones, I really showed my versatility by dominating at all five positions on the line.”
His effort didn’t go unnoticed. Mbandi left the camp with an offer from RMU, likely as an offensive lineman.
Not everyone walked away with an offer, but the feedback and exposure still matters as players kick off their senior year recruitment. Dylan Rogers, a DE/EDGE/LB from Montour (another WPIAL school), turned in a strong performance. While this was his first in-person introduction to many on the RMU staff, he’s already thinking long-term. He’s spoken with the Colonials staff on the phone, but showing what you can do in person is what earns you an offer.
“It was a well-organized camp that really gave all players an opportunity to get reps and to get better,” Rogers said. “The coaches had so much attention to detail, and they encouraged players to compete in almost every drill, which really brought out the best of us.”
Rogers made an impression on the staff and especially appreciated working with new defensive line coach Benjamin Nsubuga. We’ve heard nothing but praise for the new DL coach at RMU. He’s brought a new energy level to the program that will help with development and recruiting for the Colonials.
“Coach Nsubuga had so much energy throughout the whole camp and gave me good advice for my pass rushing,” Rogers said. “I also had the opportunity to meet the head coach and defensive coordinator. I’m hoping to stay in touch and continue the recruiting process. I know I can be a playmaker for RMU.”
Mega Camps often carry a reputation for being overcrowded, with players getting lost in the shuffle. That wasn’t the case here. Multiple attendees noted how the setup allowed for actual instruction, real reps, and meaningful feedback. Kudos to RMU for pulling off a pretty difficult event.
As summer unfolds and camp season hits full swing (we’ve got two NEC camps tomorrow), RMU’s approach at this Mega Camp set the tone. First impressions matter everywhere in life. For players like Mbandi and Rogers, this was a strong one for both sides.
Lakers Host JUCO OL On Official Visit
Mercyhurst has been making moves in the trenches all offseason. And, as we’ve pointed out before, they like to look west for JUCO players. They’ve had no problem going to the Golden State before- including this offseason- and they’re still fishing for at least one more lineman.
Navi Arretché, an offensive lineman out of Modesto Junior College, recently took an official visit to Mercyhurst and came away impressed. The Lakers are the first Division I program to offer him, and while Arretché has drawn interest from UC Davis and made an unofficial stop at UCLA, Mercyhurst brought him on campus to show him what life on Lake Erie would look like for the young OL.
“Being there just felt comfortable, and that was because of the people,” Arretché said. “Everyone was welcoming. The coaches are also really easy to have a connection with. Talking with Coach Riemedio felt like talking to a father who wanted the best for you, and knows the potential that you have. Coach Waring is also someone who I can tell would do anything for his offensive line. It’s really enjoyable to be around him. He’s also incredibly smart when it comes to offensive line play as well.”
In a recruiting landscape increasingly shaped by NIL- even at the FCS level- it’s refreshing to be reminded that connection still matters. And not just surface-level rapport. Official visits can be a lot of fun, and a lot of times you hear about what campus is like and the activities the recruits got to participate in. What stands out with Navi Arretché isn’t just that he had a good time on his official to Mercyhurst- it’s who he felt that bond with.
When your first Division I offer comes with genuine relationships, and those ties are with the head coach and recruiting coordinator, that’s meaningful. Arretché spoke about Coach Riemedio like a mentor, and had high praise for Coach Waring’s approach to both the person and the position. That kind of alignment doesn’t guarantee a commitment, but it does create staying power, and the Lakers seem poised to be a player moving forward.
And why not? It wouldn’t be the first time a California JUCO product found a home in Erie. The Lakers have had success in that lane before- most notably with Adam Urena- and Arretché could be the next in line. He’s transferring after a true freshman season and should have plenty of eligibility to develop. No commitment yet, but Mercyhurst has clearly set the tone. This is one to monitor.
Mercyhurst Is All Alone in Cincinnati
It is true- there are no lakes in Cincinnati. Just the Ohio River. But while there’s no lakes, there’s been plenty of Lakers.
Mercyhurst is making a strong play for Cincinnati-area talent, focusing on Class of 2026 prospects roughly 345 miles from their Erie, PA campus. The Lakers have extended offers to several players from the region, including Reid Baker (Inside Linebacker), Kemaury Tye (DB), Andre Underwood (ATH), Grant Hester (OT/OG), and most recently, Brady Kuhn (OLB), all hailing from Cincinnati, OH. They’ve also been active in suburbs like Springboro, OH, where they have an offer out to OLB/TE Evan Weinberg.
It’s actually been a working strategy already for Mercyhurst. They snagged WR Trace Jallick from Cincinnati in the 2025 class. He was listed as a 3 star on 247, and was the National High School offensive player of the year. Statistically, Jallick was 4th in the nation in receiving yards. Mercyhurst may have had a unique pitch and definitely had offensive firepower that Akron and Kent State couldn’t match, as he committed to the Lakers. Jallick figures to be one of the key additions from the Mercyhurst 2025 high school class and a player who could see the field as a freshman.
Interestingly, Mercyhurst seems to have this recruiting territory largely to themselves among NEC teams. Other conference programs haven’t shown significant activity in the Cincinnati area based on our current recruiting trackers. Even RMU, who historically recruits Ohio very strongly, hasn’t gone this deep into the Buckeye state. This strategic focus could give Mercyhurst an edge in building their roster with some overlooked Ohio talent as they continue their transition to Division I in the NEC.
RMU First Offer In On Local Standout Tristan Reed
There’s something about WPIAL players.
You’ve heard it before—and you’ll hear it again. Programs in the NEC recruit nationally- that’s the reality of Division I- but they don’t just win with their local talent. They build with it. And RMU made sure to be first in line for one of the region’s most versatile athletes.
Tristan Reed, a standout from Washington High School, picked up his first Division I offer from RMU after a strong showing at camp. The Colonials didn’t wait. They made the move.
“First and foremost, I want to thank WPIAL Insider for inviting me to the camp. Overall, the experience was great. It was well-run, and the competition was strong,” Reed said. “It started when Coach Makrinos came up and asked if I was going to play wide receiver or quarterback. We talked for a bit, and I told him I’d be at WR that day.”
That’s when Reed started making noise.
“At the combine portion, I ran a 4.54 on my first 40. Coach Makrinos said he was impressed and told me to run it again. On my second try, I clocked a 4.50 flat. Then he walked up to me, shook my hand, and said, ‘Tristan, we’re going to offer you a scholarship here at RMU.’ That was the highlight of my life. All the work I’ve put in for years is finally paying off. I just want to thank Coach Makrinos and RMU for taking a chance on me.”
Reed’s been drawing more attention recently after committing to playing defensive back and wide receiver moving forward. With his versatility, there’s plenty to like—especially for a Colonials program eager to reload with regional athletes. They were the program with the most WPIAL recruits in the nation for the 2025 class.
Reed has not committed to the Colonials. It’s early in the process, but there’s often said to be an advantage for being the first offer in. RMU evaluated Reed and was the first to recognize his talent in Division I.
And again, let’s say it louder for the people in the back:
You can win a lot of games with WPIAL players.
From the Big Apple to the Big Ten: LIU Sends 2 to the P4
Long Island University may not historically be a household name in Power Four recruiting circles, but two recent spring portal transfers are making that case harder to maintain. Defensive lineman Elijah St. John and offensive tackle Moshood Giwa are now suiting up for Purdue and Rutgers, respectively—two Big Ten programs. In the Big Ten, they’re awfully familiar with the “cloud of dust” approach to football, and linemen on both sides of the ball are crucial to winning with and against the run game.
For LIU, these moves are more than just roster changes; they’re proof of concept. No one wants to lose their best players, and the Sharks will have their work cut out for them replacing some of their best players in 2025. But from a recruiting standpoint, it’s hard to ignore what Coach Cooper and his staff is doing: If you come to LIU unranked, you can work and be developed into a player ready for the P4 ranks.
From LIU to the Big Ten Trenches
The jump from the NEC to the P4 is not just about raw talent. It’s about a program developing their players. Both St. John and Giwa have gotten stronger and turned into game changing players while on Long Island. It probably doesn’t hurt that they’ve been going against each other in practice for over a year, either.
Elijah St. John, a 6-1, 275-pound defensive lineman from Ottawa, Ontario, has committed to Purdue after back-to-back seasons as a disruptive force up front for the Sharks. In 2024, he posted 40 tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack, and two forced fumbles in 12 games. That kind of performance, combined with his motor and experience, made him a key target for the Boilermakers as they reshaped their defensive front. For our part, he was anticipated to be an all-NEC player. We had him graded as the best second team All-NEC Blitz preseason defensive lineman prior to his departure.
Purdue, which has leaned heavily on the portal this offseason, added St. John as one of six defensive linemen in the spring window. The Canadian’s journey from Clearwater Academy International to LIU, and now to West Lafayette, underscores how LIU can turn overlooked prospects into Big Ten contributors. For St. John, he now faces a tough competition to earn playing time among a defensive front that will look to play and rotate out players for maximum disruption. He’ll have to lean on the same effort that turned him into a starter at LIU to do that for the Boilermakers.
Meanwhile, Moshood Giwa brings a different kind of toolset to Rutgers—a 6-6, 315-pound frame with 34-inch arms and experience at both tackle spots. After redshirting in 2023, the Brooklyn native logged 734 snaps across 11 games in 2024. He can play both tackle spots, which might have made him even more attractive to the power schools. That versatility is now drawing attention in Piscataway, where Rutgers is looking to replace longtime starter Hollin Pierce and solidify the edges of its offensive line.
With three years of eligibility and a solid foundation built at LIU, Giwa is already deep in the competition under offensive line coach Pat Flaherty. His ability to plug in at multiple positions makes him a valuable asset for a team that’s reconfiguring its line around returning veterans and young challengers. It’s possible that he’ll need further development, but he’s already shown the potential to grow.
A Development Blueprint
It’s an exciting time to be recruited by the Sharks. LIU’s coaching staff has built a reputation on evaluating under-recruited talent and turning it into opportunity. That approach has now paid off on both sides of the line, in two of the most physically demanding positions in college football. For a program that played physical ball in the NEC last season, sending a pair of linemen to the Big Ten is a statement about just how powerful they can be.
This isn’t a one-off. LIU continues to build its roster with the knowledge that if players perform, the Power Four will come calling. That may challenge traditional views of success in the FCS—but for LIU, success now means preparing athletes not just to compete, but to ascend. From here, the Sharks will bring in the next class of players and develop them into difference makers. They’ll lose some after they’re successful in the Big Apple, but that’ll just make them more attractive to the next class of student athletes that want to develop into stars.
As the college football landscape continues to shift with the portal and NIL, programs like LIU are redefining what it means to be a developmental program. St. John and Giwa are proof: the Sharks aren’t just keeping up. They’re developing their athletes into players that any team in the nation would love to have.
They’re sending players to the biggest stages in the sport. And that message is clear. If you can be a difference maker here, you can play anywhere.
California Dreaming: Mercyhurst Gains Commitment From Amir Lemmons
Mercyhurst has added a key piece to its defensive backfield with the commitment of Amir Lemmons, a physical and productive defensive back out of Sierra College in Northern California. At 6’1”, 200 pounds with a rangy 78-inch wingspan, Lemmons is the kind of athlete who stands out on film. It’s not just on film where he makes an impact, though. Lemmons is always readily apparent in the box score.
Lemmons was a Unanimous All-NorCal First Team selection after a monster season in the JUCO ranks, racking up 134 tackles, 8 pass breakups, 5 tackles for loss, and 1 interception. More than just a stat machine, Lemmons brings physicality to the backend of the Mercyhurst defense. You love to see a physical player that’s adept at tackling at the safety position, and it looks like the Lakers may have landed just that.
The reason why Lemmons committed from all the way in California is simple and a reflection that at our level the relationships still matter. “It felt like home. All of the people there are great,” Lemmons said of his commitment to the Lakers.
It’s not the first time the Lakers have pulled from California, and it certainly won’t be the last.
Mercyhurst head coach Ryan Riemedio has deep ties to California from his time as a player and coach in the region, and that familiarity has quietly become a recruiting edge. Lemmons isn’t the first JUCO standout from California to find his way to Erie—Adam Urena, a quarterback from Citrus College, took the same path previouisly.
It’s an unusual pipeline for a program based in western Pennsylvania, but the returns speak for themselves. Mercyhurst has found value in looking beyond traditional borders, especially when it leads to players with Lemmons' level of production and polish. Whether it’s Western PA or northern California, the Lakers are showing they know how to identify talent—and land it.
With Lemmons in the mix, the Lakers' secondary just got more dangerous. We’ll be keeping an eye out for him this season.
“I’d Love to Go Here”: Daryl Agyei Takes Us Inside Wagner Junior Day
Class of 2026 defensive lineman Daryl Agyei (6’0, 235) is still waiting on an offer, but he’s not waiting to put in the work.
The Linden (NJ) product recently visited Wagner for Junior Day and came away impressed with what the Seahawks are building. He gave us a look inside the experience for some of the rising seniors who made the trip to Staten Island. “We had a tour around campus, the locker rooms, and the stadium itself,” Agyei said. “We were also able to watch spring practice and see how the program works and prepares for games.”
Head coach Tom Masella addressed the group, speaking about Wagner’s football culture, academic offerings, and the program’s long climb—from Division III roots to its current place in Division I. Masella knows that journey firsthand: he was on staff during Wagner’s 2012 NEC title run and FCS playoff win, and part of the program in the 1980s just before its DIII national championship in 1987.
We’ve been vocal fans of what Masella’s building on Staten Island and the slow but steady growth that the program has shown through his time there. It’s evident in some of the recruits Wagner’s pulled in as of late, as well as some of the talent that the program has developed. Win on Staten Island and you just might get a chance to win at the next level. There’s three active NFL players who have played for the Seahawks.
Agyei didn’t get one on one time with the coaches during the visit, but he connected with players and walked away with a strong impression. “It was great to see how serious the team takes their preparation,” he said. “I’d love to go here if given the chance.”
Watch Agyei’s film and it’s clear why he’s worth tracking. He shows the ability to get into the backfield from a three-point stance or as a stand-up edge, and he’s not just an edge rusher—he can slide inside and still disrupt. Linden uses him across the line, and he delivers for the New Jersey program.
Wagner may have been one of the first to get a closer look, but he’s got plenty of Junior Day visits on the calendar. The rest of the cycle should be worth watching.
Arison Walker Ready for Freshman Season with Red Flash
In college football recruiting, decisions about where to play can be as strategic as the game itself. For Arison Walker, a standout defensive back from Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, the choice was clear: Saint Francis University.
And then the announcement came. Saint Francis would be transitioning to Division III, and Walker was suddenly left with a difficult decision: move on to somewhere else that wasn’t his dream school, or stick it out and play for the Red Flash with an uncertain future. Walker was a player we loved from the moment he signed on with Saint Francis, someone we discussed in considerable detail whenever we took a look through the announced signing class of over 50 student-athletes. And even in that crowded field, Walker stood out.
Walker's journey to Saint Francis began from the moment he connected with the program. "From the beginning, Coach Jacob Craig, my defensive coordinator, just made me feel love and at home," he recalled. It wasn’t just the football program that drew him in; it was the academic environment too. The small class sizes offered a chance to stand out in a way that mattered to him. "Going up to the school, seeing the campus, knowing that I would be someone that could be seen in the classroom, that I would be noticed." The coaches’ support sealed the deal. "The coaches showed a lot of love. So that also helped on my decision too," he added. Saint Francis, like the rest of the NEC, does allow athletes the opportunity to stand out and be noticed, even on the Division I stage.
But the path forward shifted unexpectedly when Saint Francis announced its move to Division III. Walker first caught wind of the change through the grapevine on social media. "I found out through somebody on social media. He was from Washington & Jefferson, and he sent me the email [that we would be playing against each other]," he said. In disbelief at first, he sought confirmation from a trusted source. "I ended up sending it to my coach and then he gave me a call and then that’s when I found out it was true," he explained, referring to Coach Craig. The news could have derailed his plans, but Walker approached it with the same measured thoughtfulness that resulted in his initial commitment.
Faced with this pivotal moment, Walker turned to the pillars of his life: faith and family. "Just a discussion with my parents and then also just praying on it. I’m a high believer of God and I believe certain things happen for a reason," he shared. "I trust Him. So I prayed on it and then I talked with my family and then we came to a decision that I was to stay at Saint Francis for one or two years."
The decision to commit with the idea of playing one or two years at Saint Francis isn’t one that Walker will be making alone in his class. He committed to play Division I ball; he has two years of scholarship opportunity to stand out at Saint Francis, and then, understandably, he hopes to continue to pursue his dreams of playing football at the highest level. "I do want to play ball… I just don’t want to give up on my dreams just like that. I don’t want it to end like that." With the transition from high school to college, he also plans to prioritize his education both on and off the field this coming season.
Readers familiar with Aliquippa won’t be surprised if Walker has a breakthrough season in year one. Aliquippa is a small town and an even smaller school district with a reputation for producing football talent at the Division I level- and beyond. He credited being from Aliquippa as a reason for his development through high school. Reflecting on his experience of being a Quip, he stated that the expectations placed on the program are a motivating factor for their success. "We were obviously held to a higher standard than everybody else. And I feel like it really prepares us for college."
Now, as he prepares for his freshman year, Walker’s goals are both ambitious and precise. "I’m coming not only to come in and start, but get better, be a better student of the game, get my education.” I came away from the conversation knowing that he’s eager to hit the ground running, and excited to see exactly what that looks like. "I’m trying to get on that field from the door and to do whatever I can, and to work hard.”
Duquesne Football Signs Graduate Transfer QB Tyler Riddell
Duquesne University football has made a significant move to bolster its roster, signing graduate transfer quarterback Tyler Riddell as the anticipated successor to star quarterback Darius Perrantes. Perrantes, the first-team All-NEC QB in 2024, leaves behind a daunting task- a quarterback will need to fill those shoes on the Bluff, and it looks like Riddell is the front runner to do it.
Riddell brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to Duquesne, arriving after a standout 2024 campaign with Gardner-Webb and a five-year stint at East Tennessee State (ETSU). He had also been set to join the FBS Florida International Panthers this offseason prior to decommitting. With over 7,500 career passing yards and 54 touchdowns, the graduate student is poised to make an immediate impact for the Dukes.
In his lone season at Gardner-Webb, Riddell threw for 2,573 yards while tossing 16 touchdowns. His best yardage output came against FBS Charlotte, where he racked up 240 passing yards. He’ll be opening the 2025 season against P4 competition in the Pitt Panthers.
Before Gardner-Webb, Riddell spent five seasons at ETSU. Finishing his Buccaneers career with over 5,000 passing yards and 38 touchdowns, he led ETSU to 11 wins and a SoCon Championship in 2021. That year, he earned Freshman All-American honors, throwing for 2,464 yards while completing 211 passes.
Replacing Darius Perrantes, who dominated the NEC last season, won’t be easy. Perrantes propelled the Dukes to a share of the NEC championship in 2024 and a top 25 ranking at the end of the season. CCSU, Mercyhurst, and LIU are all returning skilled quarterbacks, and Riddell will need to adapt quickly to keep the Dukes competitive in the NEC. Riddell brings not only skill but maturity to a Duquesne squad eager to build on recent success. With spring practice already underway at Duquesne, all eyes will be on Riddell as he settles into his new role. If his past is any indication, Duquesne may have just reloaded under center, potentially erasing their biggest question mark heading into the 2025 season.
Skyhawks Add QB Myles Bastani
Myles Bastani, a quarterback originally from Miramonte High School in California, has committed to Stonehill. After completing a post-graduate year at Portsmouth Abbey High School in Rhode Island, Bastani is set to enroll as a freshman. This is the third quarterback commit for the Skyhawks this class.
Bastani's HUDL film showcases his strong grasp of short drop passes and his ability to perform under pressure. He also demonstrated composure and playmaking ability in difficult situations. Last season, Stonehill was certainly a place that gave young quarterbacks an opportunity to compete for playing time.
“When I visited, I saw that Coach Gardner is building something special, especially through the weight room and the culture he’s instilling in the team,” said Bastani. “The young energy of the program really stood out to me, and I knew it was the right place to grow as a player and a leader.”
The signing comes on the heels of longtime assistant coach and offensive coordinator Tyler Moody departing to become the head coach at The College of New Jersey. Despite the possibility of a change in offensive schemes, Bastani's decision to commit amid this transition speaks to Coach Gardner’s vision of Stonehill’s future.
The Skyhawks are looking to rebound from a difficult 2024 season, where they finished 0-6 in conference play and 1-10 overall. While they’ve shown competitiveness in their short time in the NEC, beating Duquesne in each of their first two seasons, last season’s struggles could have been due to a young roster in need of experience. Now, with the continued youth movement, Bastani’s choice reflects his confidence in the program’s potential.
Markell Holman Remains With Red Flash
The transfer portal is rarely a kind place, but this winter one of Saint Francis’s leading players entered the portal—and chose to return to Loretto.
Markell Holman's decision to remain with the Red Flash is a major boost for the offense heading into the 2025 season. After entering the portal in December and receiving an offer from Morgan State, Holman ultimately chose to stay at Saint Francis. In today’s college football landscape, outcomes like this are far from guaranteed. Players often leave, and if the demand doesn’t meet their expectations, they can find themselves without a program to return to. Many schools aren’t willing to reopen the door for players who explore the transfer market. But in this case, the mutual benefit must have been clear—the Red Flash saw Holman as a critical piece of their plans and an outstanding running back, and Holman recognized that his best opportunity was in Loretto.
Holman, a junior halfback, will be expected to take on a leadership role for the offense. In 2024, he showcased his ability by rushing for 578 yards and scoring six touchdowns. With his dynamic playmaking ability, Holman is poised to be a critical component of a Red Flash squad that has emphasized development and staying competitive despite roster turnover.
The NEC is a great place to watch elite running backs. It’s a league that features CCSU’s Elijah Howard and Duquesne’s JaMario Clements. They’ll be first team everywhere, but in 2025, expect Holman to be right on their heels. His proven performance will likely earn him strong consideration for preseason All-NEC honors. Any outlet that offers a first and second team will almost certainly be including him on their list.
The Red Flash, who have embraced a "next man up" mentality amid player movement, have managed to hold on to one of their best. Now, they’ll look to Holman to help lead them to a third conference title.
It’s Always Sunny on Staten Island - Key Florida Recruits Headline Another Strong Seahawk Class
If there’s one thing I can say comfortably about watching Wagner College, it’s that the program under Tom Masella is absolutely on an improving trajectory that has been more evident with every season. When I spoke to Coach last fall, he indicated that among other things, his staff has been able to recruit well to Wagner and raise the talent level. While some of that talent like WR Jaylen Bonelli has subsequently moved on, Wagner looks like it’s raised the floor again with its 2025 signing class. The Seahawks continue to stand out by aggressively recruiting Florida talent. They’ll end up with around 12 signees from the Sunshine State this season. They hit the north plenty, too- Wagner is still an NEC school, after all, and their roster makeup reflects it- but it’s part of their recruiting DNA to go to Florida.
Wagner’s not just unearthing hidden gems from down south. They also have been successful in winning recruitment battles in and out of conference. We’ve got the scoop on just a few of the notable wins from this year’s class.
Ryan Long, OL, Heritage HS (FL)
It’s no secret that Wagner hits Florida harder than most NEC programs, and Ryan Long is a prime example of that strategy paying off. The offensive lineman from Heritage High School had interest from Florida and Miami, even receiving a preferred walk-on (PWO) offer from the Hurricanes. Schools like Miami don’t hand out PWO offers unless they believe a player has Division I potential. Wagner head coach Tom Masella was in the neighborhood before Heritage’s game against St. Augustine and made sure Long left that conversation with an offer. Long accepted, and now he’s set to anchor the Seahawks’ offensive line in the coming seasons.
Uriah Maynard, RB, East Ridge HS (FL)
Maynard’s recruitment took a dramatic turn before landing in Wagner’s favor. Originally set to visit another NEC school, days after Maynard made that announcement, he received an offer from Wagner. He would eventually visit Wagner instead. The visit sealed the deal, and he committed soon after. The standout running back played against top-tier Florida competition and brings the kind of explosiveness that could translate well to Staten Island. With his ability to contribute early, Maynard is a name to watch in this class.
Austin Bailey, WR/DB, Paul VI HS (NJ)
Bailey’s recruitment was another major win for Wagner, as he picked the Seahawks over former NEC rival Sacred Heart and even held an offer from Syracuse. Recruiting services projected Bailey as a defensive back, but Wagner’s signing announcement listed both positions- suggesting that maybe they see him as more than just a one-position player. At 6'2", his size gives the Seahawks some options, whether he lines up at corner, safety, or even gets reps on offense.
Matt Mullins, TE, Canterbury School (CT)
At 6'4", 230 pounds, Mullins brings a combination of size and athleticism that should create mismatch nightmares for NEC defenses. He chose Wagner over offers from multiple NEC programs, reinforcing the Seahawks’ ability to win recruiting battles against conference foes. Whether as a red-zone target or a key blocker, Mullins has the potential to make a big impact. Despite how few high-impact tight ends are out there, the NEC has consistently produced good ones. Now, Mullins looks like he might be part of the next generation of NEC tight ends.
Shane Eason Signs with Stonehill, Joins Brother in Shovel Town
One of the major pieces for Stonehill College’s 2025 signing day class was standout running back Shane Eason. The Methuen, Massachusetts, product put together a dominant high school career and now joins his older brother, quarterback Drew Eason, in Shovel Town.
Eason leaves Methuen High School as one of the most accomplished players in program history. His high school coach, Tom Ryan, didn’t mince words when describing his impact.
“Shane Eason will go down as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, player in the history of Methuen Football,” Ryan said. “He is the complete running back in every sense of the word. He catches the ball well and is incredibly elusive in the open field. Additionally, he runs very tough inside. He is a player who practices hard every day and has become a vocal leader on our team.”
The numbers back it up. As a senior in 2024, Eason carried the ball 178 times for 1,818 yards and 28 touchdowns. He also added 12 receptions for 156 yards and three touchdowns while making an impact on special teams with a 60-yard punt return touchdown. Over his high school career, he amassed 3,485 rushing yards on 422 carries, hauled in 101 catches for 1,811 yards, and returned four kicks (two punts, two kickoffs) for touchdowns.
Stonehill head coach Eli Gardner is thrilled to welcome Eason into the program, especially considering the family ties.
“We are excited to keep it in the family and welcome Shane to Shovel Town! He is electric with the football and has great versatility,” Gardner said.
The move reunites Shane with his brother, Drew, who plays quarterback for the Skyhawks. Drew appeared in three games in 2024, preserving his redshirt status.
Despite his prolific high school production, Eason may have flown under the radar due to playing in Massachusetts, a state that historically has not produced a high volume of FCS and FBS recruits. That oversight could work to Stonehill’s advantage, as they may have landed a steal in Eason. If his high school career is any indication, he could make an immediate impact for the Skyhawks.
Hoogerwerff Adds Homegrown Talent to Red Flash QB Room
The Red Flash have a deep recruiting class in 2025. But for all of that depth, to this point, they’ve only signed one quarterback.
Maybe that’s all they need.
Saint Francis secured a signed letter of intent from quarterback Frank Hoogerwerff Jr. of Avon Grove High School in Pennsylvania. The 6’1” signal caller brings with him a skill set that should help him make an impact in Loretto.
In our conversation about his choice to play for the Red Flash, Hoogerwerff shared, "I believe SFU is the perfect fit for me. One of the biggest reasons is the coaches’ vision. Their focus isn’t just on success but on development as well, which I believe leads to even greater success in the long run. I’m excited to be part of this program and contribute to the team’s growth and achievements."
Hoogerwerff's commitment is notable not only because of his physical traits, but also because of his style of play. His highlights from Avon Grove show a quarterback who may not yet be fully polished but is full of potential. He has an innate ability to make plays when things break down, keeping defenders on their toes. We reviewed some of his highlights and came away impressed. Hoogerwerff is no pocket passer. He’s a dynamic player that, with development, possesses the kind of mobility and escapability (that’s a word now, right?) that is crucial in today’s college game.
A standout play came against Unionville in 2024, where Hoogerwerff turned what seemed like an imminent sack into a plus play. He dodged three defenders in the backfield—at one point looking like he might give up the sack—but instead turned the play into a big gain. Once he broke free, he found a receiver who had positioned himself perfectly in a hole in the zone, calmly catching the ball and stepping out of bounds for a first down. It’s the type of play that makes football fun to watch.
As a runner, Hoogerwerff is equally impressive. Another highlight we viewed features him on a quarterback power run where he initially picks up solid yardage behind his blockers, but then shows excellent vision, agility, and creativity by cutting back across the field, ultimately scoring a touchdown on the opposite side.
Saint Francis is known for being a development focused program, and with Hoogerwerff’s raw talent, it will be exciting to see how he grows within the Red Flash program.
Red Flash’s Big Class Keeps Identity Intact
Remember who you are.
It’s a mantra worth repeating for anyone striving for success. The Red Flash have embraced that mindset—and their results speak for themselves.
In 2024, Saint Francis delivered the NEC’s lone FBS victory by toppling Kent State, powered by a suffocating defense that kept them competitive in nearly every game. Unsurprisingly, that defensive prowess drew attention, with several key players transferring, including one making the leap to a Big Ten program. But in Loretto, that’s just business as usual. The Red Flash’s response remains unchanged: keep recruiting, keep developing.
Local talent has taken notice—and you have to assume their coaches have as well. Saint Francis’s 2025 class is built on a strong foundation of regional prospects, with approximately 24 signees from Pennsylvania (including transfers) and another nine from Maryland. Locking down the backyard is a priority, and the Red Flash believe a conference title is within reach by keeping homegrown talent close. And like the rest of the NEC, if you play well enough here, you can play anywhere.
One of the standout additions is Arison Walker, a versatile two-way player from Aliquippa, a perennial powerhouse in western Pennsylvania. Despite its small size, Aliquippa consistently competes at higher levels thanks to its sustained success. Walker, projected to play safety at SFU, also comes with strong football pedigree—his relatives have played at Ohio University and Albany. The Red Flash hope to develop Walker into another cornerstone of their defense.
But while individual recruits stand out—and we’ll highlight them soon—the biggest story for the Red Flash may be the sheer size of their class. Saint Francis has announced nearly 50 signees, including 30 in the traditional signing period, and it’s unclear if they’re done yet. Some of these will undoubtedly be preferred walk-ons, but that only reinforces the Red Flash’s ability to develop talent. They’ve built a program where players know that if they come to Loretto, they’ll have a real opportunity to grow into scholarship athletes.
And so, Saint Francis prepares for another fall. They know that if they succeed, they’ll lose players to the portal. When that happens, it’s just further proof that they’ve done their job—evaluating, developing, and preparing athletes for the next level.
The cycle continues in Loretto, where the Red Flash know exactly who they are.
RMU: The NEC’s Kings of the Buckeye State
When RMU signed its 2025 class, it signaled a very clear plan: recruit Ohio.
And it makes sense.
Ohio is a prime recruiting ground that isn’t heavily targeted by most other NEC programs, with Mercyhurst being the biggest exception. While MAC schools and Youngstown State scoop up a lot of the state’s talent, RMU has been able to carve out its own niche. Over the past two recruiting cycles, the Colonials have signed 31 players from Ohio, including 14 in the 2024 class alone.
While RMU recruits nationally—and even internationally, with a signee from Switzerland this cycle—it’s clear that the program considers Ohio an extension of its Pittsburgh backyard.
The latest class continues this trend, with RMU signing 14 players from all across the Buckeye State:
Defensive Additions: DL Asher Wilson (Cleveland), LB Maximus Thompson (Solon), LB Jakari Patterson (Cincinnati), LB Jake Lopinto (Columbus), LB Khalil Daniels (Columbus), CB Antonio Martin (Green), CB Quinn Ingram (Westerville), S Blake Allen (Macedonia), DL Caden Walker (Kings Mills), and S Jaylen Williams (Columbus).
Offensive Signings: WR Tyler Evans (Youngstown), WR Aiden Henry (Hinckley), OL Vincent Boila (Struthers), and QB Cooper Panteck (Strongsville).
This isn’t just a one-year trend—RMU has made Ohio a priority in building its roster.
RMU’s strategy makes a lot of sense:
Ohio consistently produces FBS and FCS-level players, giving RMU a deep talent base to pull from. And while the MAC and Youngstown State are factors, most NEC programs don’t heavily recruit Ohio. That gives RMU an advantage in landing players who may have been overlooked at the FBS level. And it can’t really be overstated enough: with Pittsburgh just a short drive from major Ohio recruiting hubs, RMU’s staff can maintain strong relationships with high school coaches in the area. RMU’s coaches have gone to coaching clinics in Ohio, speaking and connecting with local coaches. They’re in this for the long haul.
RMU’s return to the NEC was met with enthusiasm, both internally and externally. The Colonials were (and are) a program capable of contending for titles, immediately staying alive in the conference race until late in the 2024 season. But beyond the high level of football they bring to the league, RMU brings something else to the NEC: a pipeline into Ohio.
RMU is tapping into one of the biggest talent pools in the country—and a state that plays hardnosed football. By consistently recruiting Ohio, the Colonials aren’t just adding numbers to their roster; they’re building an identity. Ohio football is known for producing tough, disciplined players, and RMU’s commitment to the state ensures a steady pipeline of talent that fits their physical, defensive-minded approach. This strategy also strengthens the program’s long-term stability, creating depth across multiple recruiting cycles and reinforcing key positions with players accustomed to high-level competition.
Beyond individual player development, RMU’s consistent presence in Ohio will only make future recruiting easier. As more Ohio players succeed in Moon Township, the Colonials will gain credibility among high school coaches and prospects, strengthening their ability to land even better talent in the coming years. RMU is establishing a clear recruiting identity that could shape the program’s future success.
And as RMU continues to recruit and develop Ohio talent, more prospects in the state will become familiar with the Colonials—and by extension, the NEC as a whole. Over time, this will pave the way for other NEC programs further east to dip into the Buckeye State.
Still, the Colonials are likely to remain the kings of the Ohio hill. With a reputation for developing defensive talent—highlighted by Rob Carter Jr.'s nationally recognized interception in Week 1 and consecutive shutout performances against Saint Francis and Merrimack—RMU has established itself as an attractive landing spot for overlooked Ohio prospects eager to prove themselves at the Division I level.
And if the past two years are any indication, the Colonials wouldn’t have it any other way.
CCSU Gears Up For Another NEC Title Run With Strong and Experienced 2025 Class
Central Connecticut State's football program is gearing up for the 2025 season with a strong influx of talent from both the transfer portal and its freshman signing class. The transfer portal talent suggests that CCSU is comfortable with the core of their team and expects to be able to make another run to the top of the NEC and the FCS playoffs, and that just a few finishing touches were needed, particularly in the back end of the defense. In Hard Hittin' New Britain, they're looking to prove that last year was no one-off. Here's a deep dive into some of their signings.
Speed and Experience in the Secondary
One of the biggest areas of improvement comes in the defensive backfield, where CCSU has brought in transfers to complement returning NEC Defensive Rookie of the Year Chris Jean. The Blue Devils had to replace some talent in the secondary with the departure of reigning NEC Defensive Player of the Year Kimal Clark. Their transfer additions in this area were Brayden Hall (Coastal Carolina), Mel Jacobs III (East Carolina), Davion Jennings (Akron), Dekavis Preston (Charleston), and Shea Terry (Bryant). This was an area where the Blue Devils looked to not only replace Clark, but also maybe even upgrade the unit as a whole from last season with the influx of experience. Fans in New Britain can expect great competition in camp for the defensive backfield starting positions.
Offensive Firepower: Wadley Joins Howard
On the offensive side, the Blue Devils landed a major playmaker in Donovan Wadley, the 2023 NEC Offensive Player of the Year from Merrimack. Wadley’s presence will provide a dynamic receiving threat, pairing well with Elijah Howard, who the coaching staff regards as the best running back in FCS. The duo is expected to be the key to upgrading CCSU’s offensive attack in 2025.
Two Backyards for Freshmen Signees
CCSU had no trouble stocking their recruiting class with local high school standouts, including David Rivera from Waterbury Career and Jadon Langford from Windsor High, both in Connecticut. Rivera, a defensive lineman who had some interest from Syracuse, was a key get for the Blue Devils. These additions bolster the future of CCSU’s defensive front, while a transfer signing from WVU (Derek Berlitz) might do more to help the defensive front for this season.
Outside of Connecticut, the Blue Devils made it a priority to recruit heavily in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) region, an effort led by Corners Coach Joe Rankin. The effort was a considerable success. Including transfers, the Blue Devils landed 7 athletes by our count from the region, giving them a second backyard to recruit to outside of the traditional Eastern states. This resulted in landing athletes like Davon Smith and safety Kyle Greene, both from Baltimore, MD. Greene was listed by 247 as having interest from Boston College and Marshall, but he'll be suiting up for Central Connecticut this fall.
Rebuilding the Offensive Line
The Blue Devils had a lot of work to do to restock the offensive line. The group was easily the best in conference last season and was a big part of their championship run. CCSU responded by adding three offensive linemen who bring impressive size and athleticism to the trenches. Averaging around 6-foot-5 and 275 pounds, this group provides the foundation for what could be a dominant offensive line unit in the years to come, even with the expected loss of Offensive Line coach Jeff Ambrosie.
Mercyhurst Lands Key Additions on Signing Day Ahead of First NEC Season
As Mercyhurst gears up for its inaugural season of full Northeast Conference competition, the Lakers made a statement on National Signing Day, securing several high-impact players who could contribute immediately. With a mix of standout high school prospects and an experienced graduate transfer, Mercyhurst is showing that it won’t be taking a back seat in its new conference home.
Defensive Steal: Kaleb Platz
One of the most significant commitments for the Lakers was linebacker Kaleb Platz from Montour High School. Platz, a WPIAL standout, had a tremendous senior season, racking up four interceptions and nine tackles for loss. A player with a nose for the football, he had interest from multiple NEC programs, including Duquesne, before choosing Mercyhurst. The buzz around Platz has been significant, with some calling him the “steal of the year,” and WPIAL Sportsmen ranking him among the top 10 players in Pennsylvania. Given the WPIAL’s reputation for producing tough, battle-tested athletes- and you know what we always say about WPIAL players- Mercyhurst is betting that Platz can be a defensive cornerstone in its first NEC campaign.
Offensive Playmaker: JaMeir "Mookie" Gamble
On the offensive side, the Lakers secured a major win with the signing of JaMeir Gamble, a running back from Massillon, OH. A three-star recruit, Gamble attracted interest from FCS and even FBS programs, including Central Michigan and Temple. Massillon has a strong football pedigree, and Gamble’s ability to make one cut and outrun a defense should make him an immediate factor in the Lakers’ backfield. Beating out higher-division competition for his signature is a significant recruiting win for Mercyhurst as they look to establish themselves in the NEC.
Two-Way Potential: Camden Lewis
Another WPIAL talent, Camden Lewis from South Allegheny, will be joining the Lakers as a tight end. However, his impact on both sides of the ball in high school is worth noting. WPIAL Insider ranked him as the #13 most disruptive defensive player in his section and the #15 overall two-way player in a highly competitive class. Mercyhurst had to fend off former NEC member Sacred Heart for his commitment, which speaks to his potential. Expect Lewis to bring versatility and toughness to the Lakers. And, once again, you can win a lot of games with WPIAL players.
Experienced Addition: Donovan Everette
Not all of Mercyhurst’s big signings came from the high school ranks. Graduate transfer Donovan Everette, a defensive lineman from Norfolk, VA, is set to play his final season in Erie after moving on from Elon. Everette was highly sought after within the NEC, with Duquesne and Saint Francis both vying for his services. With his collegiate experience, he could provide an immediate boost to Mercyhurst’s defensive front, bringing size and strength to the trenches.
Building for the NEC Battle
Mercyhurst’s ability to land these recruits, especially against direct NEC competition, is an encouraging sign as the program transitions into its new conference. The Lakers made it clear that they aren’t just here to participate—they’re here to compete.