Justin Goodwin Verbally Commits to Rutgers

Rutgers received their second verbal commitment for the class of 2013 from Madison High School (NJ) Athlete Justin Goodwin, yesterday. Like Anthony Cioffi, Goodwin was an under the radar prospect, coming from a small (Group 2) school in North Jersey. He is a running back at the high school level and he rushed for over 1700 yards last season, but the scouting services think he might end up as a defensive back once he gets to college.

Measurables- 5'11 185 4.60 (height, weight, 40 time)

Stars-

Rivals	Scout	ESPN	247
N/A Athlete	N/A Running Back	Not even listed on the website	3 stars, 84 rating, #62 Running Back, #25 in NJ

Again, like Cioffi, the recruiting services probably haven't gotten around to evaluating him yet, since he's from a small school and a relatively unknown prospect.

Offer Sheet: Rutgers was the fifth FBS team to offer Goodwin, joining Connecticut, Temple, Massachusetts, and Old Dominion.* He was also receiving some interest from Wisconsin, but they have yet to offer him a scholarship.

*ODU is making the jump to the FBS level in 2013, when they will join C*USA

Scouting Report: Goodwin's high school coach describes him as an explosive runner and that seems to be the case, as he often just takes pitches and out runs defenders. Goodwin can juke defenders out in the open field and his speed and elusiveness should play to the next level. He also displays tremendous vision, patience, burst thorough the hole and the ability to make quick cuts, making him an ideal fit for a zone blocking scheme. Goodwin also possess great hands and ball skills, so he can be an every down back. He definitely fits the profile of a slasher, and at Rutgers he will be playing in the right system.

 

Video:

My Take: Goodwin has decent size and good speed, and is a well rounded back. He is capable of staying on the field for all three downs with his receiving skills and he fits Rutgers' zone running scheme well. This seems like another solid, under the radar pick up for Flood's staff.