Rutgers football, led by head coach Greg Schiano, is making real moves this offseason. Schiano’s using the transfer portal to strengthen the roster, but he won’t let go of the program’s core values or developmental philosophy.
He’s got a plan for bringing new players into the mix while keeping the team’s culture intact. It’s not just about talent for Schiano—it’s about fit, too.
Rutgers’ Strategic Use of the Transfer Portal
College football keeps changing, and the transfer portal’s now a huge part of roster building. Rutgers took full advantage this offseason, pulling in 18 new players through the portal.
Schiano keeps saying it’s not only about skill; he wants guys who fit Rutgers’ culture. Greg Schiano has made it clear: culture drives every decision they make when recruiting.
Maintaining Core Values
Schiano takes a careful approach to the portal. He’s convinced that even talented players can’t just walk in and shake things up—they’ve got to match the team’s values.
*We have to be very, very careful when we go into the portal at a place like Rutgers,* Schiano said. He’s looking for guys who will help on the field and fit in off it, keeping the program’s standards high.
Key Additions to the Roster
This offseason, Rutgers landed some key players who could make a real difference. Tight end Colin Weber, coming in from Charlotte, stands out as someone likely to start right away.
Weber picked Rutgers because he saw a strong culture under Schiano. *Culture mattered to Weber,* and his choice shows how much the program values a good fit.
Impact on the Linebacker Room
Linebacker Austin Dean is another big name joining the team. He’s coming back to Rutgers after some time at Georgia Tech.
Dean brings experience to a young linebacker group that lost Mo Toure to the portal. His return should add depth and leadership, especially alongside guys like Dariel Djabome, who led the team with 105 tackles last year.
Building Towards a Championship
Rutgers is coming off back-to-back winning seasons and bowl games. Schiano wants to keep pushing the program forward.
*We’re constantly getting better and better players, and we’re constantly growing as a program,* Schiano said. The big dream? Win a championship. Schiano thinks they can do it as long as they keep improving and stick to their values.
Challenges and Opportunities
Bringing in 18 new players isn’t easy. Schiano and his staff, including Eric Josephs and Jordan Wolkstein, have to make sure the team’s culture doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.
They’ve done a solid job picking out players who really fit. That careful approach helps keep the locker room together and sets the team up for long-term success.
Looking Ahead
As Rutgers gears up for the season, they’re focused on steady progress. Schiano’s all about the *step by step, climbing the ladder* mindset.
Adding players who fit the culture just proves Rutgers is serious about sticking to its values and chasing big goals.
Fan Engagement and Support
The program’s growth isn’t just happening on the field. Rutgers’ fan base is growing, and that support matters a lot.
Fans get involved through social media, newsletters, and other platforms, building a real community around the team. If you want to keep up with Rutgers news, signing up for email updates or following along online is the way to go.
Conclusion
Rutgers football, with Greg Schiano at the helm, looks set for an intriguing season ahead.
Schiano’s been making smart moves with the transfer portal, and he’s sticking to the program’s roots.
This blend of new faces and old-school values could make Rutgers a team worth keeping an eye on.
It’ll be interesting to see how they balance fresh talent with the culture that’s always defined Rutgers football.
If you want to dig deeper into Rutgers football and their transfer portal strategy, check out the full article on 247Sports.
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