Rutgers Football Recruiting: Can Knights Keep Things Together Without Schiano?

Hamilton made his announcement on MSG Varsity, and discussed how the departure of Greg Schiano made him realize the importance of committing just to a coaching staff, but to a school. Hamilton said that for him, Rutgers was always that school.

The 6’4”, 255-pound Hamilton is rated as four-star prospect by most of the major recruiting services. He’s highly sought after not just for his pass-rushing ability, but also for his talents in stopping the run. In this era of the spread option, an edge player who can take on blockers, hold his ground, shed and tackle is extremely valuable. Hamilton plays with good discipline for a prep player, and has excellent strength. If he can keep his quickness while adding bulk, he could be a special defensive end at about 275 pounds.

Fans of Rutgers, Florida, Cal and other programs won’t have to wait quite so long to see where Darius Hamilton ends up. Hamilton was scheduled to sign on National Signing Day (February 1), but now comes word, according to Luke Stampini, that Hamilton will sign on Tuesday. Tuesday night, to be exact, on the Madison Square Garden Varsity cable network.

The defensive end plays for New Jersey’s Don Bosco Prep. Son of former NFLer Keith Hamilton, Darius is 6’4” and 250 pounds. He shows great promise against the run, but can also rush the passer. Hamilton’s skills against the run likely come from him playing a good bit of defensive tackle in high school. He’s clearly been coached up, and uses his hands well for a prospect of his age. The four major recruiting services award Hamilton five stars as a rating.