Bucknell University Athletics
Photo by: Linda Naiman
Bucknell Football Announces Early Signees
12/16/2020 1:22:00 PM | Football
LEWISBURG, Pa. – Bucknell head football coach Dave Cecchini announced the signing of 17 players to National Letters of Intent on Wednesday as part of NCAA football's Early Signing Period.
"This was a unique year in recruiting due to the pandemic and all of the additional restrictions that came with it," Cecchini said. "Despite this added adversity, I am thrilled with the high caliber student-athletes we were able to attract in this year's recruiting class. On both sides of the ball, we made additions that will help us win championships."
The players hail from 10 states: Pennsylvania (4), New York (3), California (2), North Carolina (2), Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Ohio and Virginia. Ten position groups are represented, including three each at cornerback and defensive line and two each at offensive line, running back and linebacker.
Cecchini and the Bison football staff will continue to add to the class of 2025 during the traditional signing period of February 3 through April 1.
Rushawn Baker
RB, 5-11, 225, Victor, N.Y., Victor
Victor Senior High School: Twice captained the football team … made the first team all-state, honorable mention all-state and first team all-league teams … as a sophomore, led the Blue Devils in touchdowns … ran for 814 yards on 107 carries … helped Victor reach the sectional title game with an 8-2 record.
Personal: Rushawn Rolando Baker … born April 17, 2003 in Farmington, New York … son of Kadian Baker … has two siblings: Rasheda and Rushad.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Rushawn is a big, physical running back who will hit you like a sledgehammer."
Jack Barnes
OLB, 6-3, 225, Fayetteville, N.C., Blair Academy (N.J.)
Blair Academy: Earned four letters in both football and track & field … in football, captured 2019 all-state and all-league accolades … helped the Buccaneers win the 2019 MAPL title and finish undefeated … earned team's 2019 strength & conditioning athlete of the year … logged 170 tackles and 15 sacks during career … as a sophomore, made 17 tackles for a loss … in track, finished second at the 2019 state championship meet in the discus … attended two other schools during high school days.
Personal: John Cameron Barnes … born February 28, 2002 in Durham, North Carolina … son of Chris and Mandy Barnes … has three younger siblings: Maggie, Brady and Mary Etta … father was a discus thrower at the University of Michigan.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Jack is an incredibly athletic outside linebacker who brings a physical presence to stop the run, rush the quarterback and drop into coverage."
Justin Fisher
DL, 6-5, 220, King of Prussia, Pa., Upper Merion Area
Upper Merion Area High School: Lettered in football and lacrosse … in football, was an all-league first team offensive tackle and an all-league second team defensive end … helped the Vikings qualify for the playoffs in back-to-back years … scored one defensive touchdown … served as team captain.
Personal: Justin Tyler Fisher … born April 22, 2003 in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania … son of Bill and Tenia Fisher … has an older brother, Will, who is a member of the Lebanon Valley College football team's class of 2023.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Justin is a long and athletic edge player with an incredibly high ceiling. He should create a lasting impact with our defense."
Kyle Fontes
TE, 6-4, 220, York, Pa., Central York
Central York High School: Earned three letters in football and two in volleyball … was a two-time YAIAA All-Star tight end … made the YAIAA All-Star Team once as a defensive end … 2019-20 PA Football News All-Academic Gold Team … 2018-19 Eastern PA All-Academic Silver Team … helped the Panthers finish as the 2020 PIAA 6A state runners-up and District III champions with a 10-1 record … that season, posted 309 yards and five touchdowns on 24 receptions … also played on the defensive side of the ball, logging 39 tackles, four sacks and one fumble return for a touchdown … helped Central York win two county titles … the Panthers went 9-2 in 2019.
Personal: Kyle Mason Fontes … born May 5, 2003 in Longmont, Colorado … son of Luis and Heidi Fontes … has three siblings: Jaden, Logan and Rianna … father played basketball at Fort Lewis College.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Kyle is a very productive player from a winning high school program. He is a formidable pass catcher who can also dominate the line of scrimmage."
Ethan Grady
QB, 6-4, 215, Manhattan Beach, Calif., St. Monica Catholic
St. Monica Catholic High School: Lettered in football and basketball … in football, made the 2019 all-league first team and all-area honorable mention squad … that 7-2 season, logged 2,266 yards, 21 touchdowns and a 70.3 completion percentage … twice served as team captain.
Personal: Ethan Patrick Grady … born September 18, 2002 in Los Angeles, California … son of Michael and Erin Grady … has a younger brother: Owen … father works in the movie and television industries as a cinematographer … is passionate about the arts, particularly graphic design … cousin, Jake Holliman, played football at William Jewell College.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Ethan has a big arm and a big frame to build on. He possesses the positional athleticism that can make him a dynamic presence in our offensive scheme."
Jake Guy
OL, 6-2, 285, Philadelphia, Pa., Don Bosco Prep (N.J.)
Don Bosco Preparatory High School: Lettered four times in football … helped the Ironmen finish as the state runners-up … first team all-county honoree … twice made the all-league team … started 28 career games on the offensive line.
Personal: Jacob Robert Guy … born May 3, 2003 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania … son of Sloane and Libbie Guy … father played football at Wake Forest University and is a veteran … grandfather, Forrest Guy, played football at Howard University.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Jake is an intelligent, brawling interior offensive lineman. He has the ability to anchor our offensive line for years to come."
Brad Jamison
LB, 6-3, 215, Upper Township, N.J., Ocean City
Ocean City High School: Lettered three times in football, four times in track & field and once in basketball … in football, made the Press of Atlantic City First Team and the All-West Jersey Football League Second Team … helped the Red Raiders win the 2020 Pod B title with a 6-2 record and reach the 2019 Group 4 championship game … played on both sides of the ball … as a senior, logged 43 tackles, seven tackles for a loss, one defensive touchdown and 10 receptions for 131 yards and three touchdowns … as a junior, posted 77 tackles, 8.5 tackles for a loss, 3.5 sacks and 18 receptions for 337 yards and five touchdowns … served as team captain.
Personal: Bradley David Jamison … born March 24, 2003 in Somers Point, New Jersey … son of Thomas and Leslie Jamison … has two older siblings: Ashley and Tommy … uncle Tim Watson was a defensive tackle for the Seattle Seahawks … uncles Mike and Matt Jamison played football at West Chester University … grandfather Jack Neall played football at William & Mary University … aunt Courtney Watson played basketball at the University of Delaware … cousin Patrick Kimball played football at the College of New Jersey … cousin Kylee Watson is a member of the University of Oregon basketball team's class of 2024.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Brad is a long, athletic linebacker who is extremely intelligent and can make plays sideline to sideline."
Grant Jones
OL, 6-6, 295, Ridgefield, Conn., Ridgefield/Deerfield Academy (Mass.)
Ridgefield High School: Lettered in football … helped the Tigers reach the state playoffs with an 8-2 record as a senior … recognized by the Excel Sports Academy of New England as a Top High School/Prep School Tackle for the Class of 2021 … shifted to offensive line from tight end upon making varsity team … spent a postgraduate year at the Deerfield Academy.
Personal: Grant William Jones … born January 31, 2002 in Danbury, Connecticut … son of John and Pamme Jones … has two siblings: Sophie and Evan … father rowed at Boston College … uncle, Ron Lelko, was an All-American football player at Bloomsburg University and had tryouts with the Arizona Cardinals and the New Orleans Saints … aunt, Susan Lelko, was an All-American soccer player at Case Western Reserve University.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Grant is a long, bookend type of offensive tackle who can nullify an opposing Patriot League defensive end's pass rush."
Paul Neel
RB, 5-10, 185, Charlotte, N.C., Charlotte Catholic
Charlotte Catholic High School: Lettered in football and track & field … helped the Cougar football team win three-straight 3A state championships (2017-19) … selected as the MVP of the 2019 state title game … honored on the all-county and all-conference teams … ran for 3,051 yards and 40 touchdowns through junior year … in the state record seven overtime regional finals, scored three touchdowns in overtime, including the game winner … in track, qualified for the state championships in the 4x100 relay.
Personal: Paul Alexander Neel … born June 30, 2003 in Charlotte, North Carolina … son of Eddie and Susan Neel … has an older brother, Michael, who is a member of the University of Dayton football team's class of 2023 … father played football at Virginia Tech.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Paul is a fast and explosive running back who will be a potent weapon in our offensive scheme."
Nick Niemynski
K, 6-1, 180, Blue Bell, Pa., Germantown Academy
Germantown Academy: Lettered four times in football … over course of career, went 98 for 101 on extra points and 10 for 14 on field goals … All-Inter-Ac kicker … team's Special Teams Player of the Year … graduated with the Patriots' second-longest field goal in program history … that 47-yard field goal came with 2.3 seconds left in Germantown Academy's 2019 game against Episcopal Academy, sending it to overtime and an eventual 56-55 Patriot win … recovered four career onside kicks … helped Germantown Academy go 8-2 in 2019 … the Patriots went 3-1 in a shortened 2020 season, earning a No. 10 ranking in Southeastern Pennsylvania … played soccer up until freshman year of high school.
Personal: Nicholas Karol Niemynski … born September 2, 2002 in Abington, Pennsylvania … son of Mirek and Christine Niemynski … has two older brothers: Andrew and David … aunt, Heather Musman, played soccer at St. Olaf College.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Nick is a versatile kicker with a great leg. We are looking forward to the impact he is going to have on our special teams."
Will Ohler
DL, 6-4, 230, Sudbury, Mass., Lincoln-Sudbury Regional
Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School: Lettered in football and lacrosse … in football, helped the Warriors reach the state finals and win conference and sectional titles as a junior … Lincoln-Sudbury also won a conference championship and reached the sectional finals in 2018 … all-league honoree … served as team captain as a senior … logged 50 tackles, five sacks, 10 quarterback hurries, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery as a junior.
Personal: William Michael Ohler … born December 27, 2002 in Boston, Massachusetts … son of Marc and Susan Ohler … has two brothers: Ben and Luke … grandfather, Michael Delduchetto, played football at St. Lawrence University … mother played field hockey at DePauw University … wears a purple mouthguard in honor of his grandfather, who passed away from pancreatic cancer.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Will is big, strong and physical. He has a high motor and is not afraid to make his presence known in the backfield."
Marques Owens
WR, 5-10, 170, Austell, Ga., Harrison
Carl J. Harrison High School: Lettered in football, basketball and track & field … in football, was a first team all-region, second team all-county and honorable mention all-state wide receiver … served as offensive team captain as a senior … made the Cobb County Touchdown Club All-County Offensive Team … 2020 Recruit Georgia 7A Preseason All-State honoree … helped the Hoyas win the 2019 Georgia 6A state championship with a 15-0 record … that season, posted 743 yards and nine touchdowns on 25 receptions … in basketball, made the honorable mention all-region team and the Pensacola Beach Basketball Tournament All-Tournament Team … also served as team captain.
Personal: Marques Justin Owens … born January 10, 2003 in Austell, Georgia … son of Norman and Rhonda Owens … has two older siblings: Toni and Juwan … has a cousin, Jordan Anderson, who is a member of Lafayette College's class of 2022.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Marques is a dynamic wide receiver who has the talent to make an immediate impact with our program. His speed, toughness and playmaking ability are all off the charts."
Joe Ramos
LB, 6-2, 205, Staten Island, N.Y., Blair Academy (N.J.)
Blair Academy: Lettered in football and basketball … in football, was an all-state selection and first team all-league honoree … as a junior, made 103 tackles in 11 games … as a senior, helped the Buccaneers go 8-0 by forcing 10 turnovers … spent a postgraduate year at the Peddie School.
Personal: Joseph Brian Ramos … born December 3, 2002 in Staten Island, New York … son of Brian and Laura Ramos … has four siblings: Vinny, Vanessa, Victoria and Justin.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Joe has everything you look for in a great linebacker. He has the speed to both cover and run sideline to sideline and also the strength and tenacity to be a great blitzer."
Ethan Robinson
CB, 6-1, 175, Montgomery, N.Y., Iona Prep
Iona Preparatory School: Lettered in football … three-year varsity starter … Super 11 Nominee … helped the Gaels win 2019 division and conference titles, posting an 8-1 record … that season, logged 35 tackles (12 solo), 11 pass breakups and one interception … served as team captain and on team's leadership committee … played basketball through junior year of high school … was a quarterback during Pop Warner and Town League days.
Personal: Louis Ethan Robinson … born April 30, 2003 in Bronxville, New York … son of Louis and Tawanda Robinson … has one younger sibling: Jayden.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Ethan is a confident and determined athlete who has the ability to develop into a true lockdown corner in the Patriot League."
Ray Russell
CB, 6-0. 185, Broadlands, Va., Briar Woods
Briar Woods High School: Lettered in football and track & field … served on the football team's leadership council … held opposing quarterbacks to a 50 passer rating when targeted … was named the freshman football team's defensive MVP.
Personal: Reagan Alexander Russell … born October 30, 2002 in Leesburg, Virginia … son of Robert and Kay Russell … has two older siblings: Cameron and Sam … Sam was a women's soccer player at James Madison University.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Reagan is a complete cornerback with long range, great instincts and the ability to judge the football in the deep area of the field."
Mason Taylor
CB, 6-2, 180, San Pedro, Calif., Adelanto
Adelanto High School: Lettered in football and track & field … in football, helped team win the 2018 CIF title and reach the 2019 CIF semifinals … two-time All-CIF defensive back … served as team captain as a senior … transferred to Adelanto from Silverado High School in the middle of sophomore year.
Personal: Mason Donavyn Taylor … born April 24, 2003 in San Pedro, California … son of Melvin and Clarisa Taylor … has two siblings: Elizah and Desmond.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Mason is a long cornerback who plays the game with a chip on his shoulder. He also has an outstanding ability to high point the football when it is in the air."
Aneesh Vyas
DL, 6-2, 265, West Chester, Ohio, Lakota West
Lakota West High School: Lettered three times in football and three times in wrestling … in football, was a second team Ohio Division 1 All-State, a first team All-Southwest Ohio and a two-time first team All-Greater Miami Conference selection … started all 30 varsity games on the defensive line … in 2020, Lakota West posted a school-best 8-1 record … helped the Firebirds allow just over five points per game that season … ended Colerain High School's 87-game conference win streak with a shutout … held the eventual state champion, No. 20 St. Xavier High School, to 10 points, 26 fewer than its season average … led all Lakota West defensive linemen with 5.5 sacks in 2020 … served as team captain … in wrestling, was a district qualifier.
Personal: Aneesh Parixit Vyas … born July 7, 2003 in Jackson, Michigan … son of Parixit and Veronica Vyas … has two siblings: Sameer and Arya father played cricket at the M.G. Science Institute … has lived in five different states … was a member of Lakota West's Academic Quiz Team.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Aneesh has unbelievable footwork, tenacity and explosiveness. He plays the game with an incredibly high football IQ."
"This was a unique year in recruiting due to the pandemic and all of the additional restrictions that came with it," Cecchini said. "Despite this added adversity, I am thrilled with the high caliber student-athletes we were able to attract in this year's recruiting class. On both sides of the ball, we made additions that will help us win championships."
The players hail from 10 states: Pennsylvania (4), New York (3), California (2), North Carolina (2), Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Ohio and Virginia. Ten position groups are represented, including three each at cornerback and defensive line and two each at offensive line, running back and linebacker.
Cecchini and the Bison football staff will continue to add to the class of 2025 during the traditional signing period of February 3 through April 1.
Rushawn Baker
RB, 5-11, 225, Victor, N.Y., Victor
Victor Senior High School: Twice captained the football team … made the first team all-state, honorable mention all-state and first team all-league teams … as a sophomore, led the Blue Devils in touchdowns … ran for 814 yards on 107 carries … helped Victor reach the sectional title game with an 8-2 record.
Personal: Rushawn Rolando Baker … born April 17, 2003 in Farmington, New York … son of Kadian Baker … has two siblings: Rasheda and Rushad.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Rushawn is a big, physical running back who will hit you like a sledgehammer."
Speed ☑️ Power ☑️ Vision ☑️
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
RB Rushawn Baker (@rushawnbaker23) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/aWxZbAl9yW
Jack Barnes
OLB, 6-3, 225, Fayetteville, N.C., Blair Academy (N.J.)
Blair Academy: Earned four letters in both football and track & field … in football, captured 2019 all-state and all-league accolades … helped the Buccaneers win the 2019 MAPL title and finish undefeated … earned team's 2019 strength & conditioning athlete of the year … logged 170 tackles and 15 sacks during career … as a sophomore, made 17 tackles for a loss … in track, finished second at the 2019 state championship meet in the discus … attended two other schools during high school days.
Personal: John Cameron Barnes … born February 28, 2002 in Durham, North Carolina … son of Chris and Mandy Barnes … has three younger siblings: Maggie, Brady and Mary Etta … father was a discus thrower at the University of Michigan.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Jack is an incredibly athletic outside linebacker who brings a physical presence to stop the run, rush the quarterback and drop into coverage."
You were warned: He's a problem 👿
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
OLB Jack Barnes (@_jbarnesy) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/OiFNqkjzic
Justin Fisher
DL, 6-5, 220, King of Prussia, Pa., Upper Merion Area
Upper Merion Area High School: Lettered in football and lacrosse … in football, was an all-league first team offensive tackle and an all-league second team defensive end … helped the Vikings qualify for the playoffs in back-to-back years … scored one defensive touchdown … served as team captain.
Personal: Justin Tyler Fisher … born April 22, 2003 in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania … son of Bill and Tenia Fisher … has an older brother, Will, who is a member of the Lebanon Valley College football team's class of 2023.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Justin is a long and athletic edge player with an incredibly high ceiling. He should create a lasting impact with our defense."
This Just-In: More QB Sacks Than Ever 😱
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
DL Justin Fisher (@Jfish6ix) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/jdt8DOYz2o
Kyle Fontes
TE, 6-4, 220, York, Pa., Central York
Central York High School: Earned three letters in football and two in volleyball … was a two-time YAIAA All-Star tight end … made the YAIAA All-Star Team once as a defensive end … 2019-20 PA Football News All-Academic Gold Team … 2018-19 Eastern PA All-Academic Silver Team … helped the Panthers finish as the 2020 PIAA 6A state runners-up and District III champions with a 10-1 record … that season, posted 309 yards and five touchdowns on 24 receptions … also played on the defensive side of the ball, logging 39 tackles, four sacks and one fumble return for a touchdown … helped Central York win two county titles … the Panthers went 9-2 in 2019.
Personal: Kyle Mason Fontes … born May 5, 2003 in Longmont, Colorado … son of Luis and Heidi Fontes … has three siblings: Jaden, Logan and Rianna … father played basketball at Fort Lewis College.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Kyle is a very productive player from a winning high school program. He is a formidable pass catcher who can also dominate the line of scrimmage."
Speed 💨 + Strength 💪 = 🏆s
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
TE Kyle Fontes (@kyle_fontes13) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/xvrIa9vMTG
Ethan Grady
QB, 6-4, 215, Manhattan Beach, Calif., St. Monica Catholic
St. Monica Catholic High School: Lettered in football and basketball … in football, made the 2019 all-league first team and all-area honorable mention squad … that 7-2 season, logged 2,266 yards, 21 touchdowns and a 70.3 completion percentage … twice served as team captain.
Personal: Ethan Patrick Grady … born September 18, 2002 in Los Angeles, California … son of Michael and Erin Grady … has a younger brother: Owen … father works in the movie and television industries as a cinematographer … is passionate about the arts, particularly graphic design … cousin, Jake Holliman, played football at William Jewell College.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Ethan has a big arm and a big frame to build on. He possesses the positional athleticism that can make him a dynamic presence in our offensive scheme."
🚀 Arm. 🎯 Accuracy. 🏆 Leader.
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
QB Ethan Grady (@ethangrady7) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/Kn7j3W6sRt
Jake Guy
OL, 6-2, 285, Philadelphia, Pa., Don Bosco Prep (N.J.)
Don Bosco Preparatory High School: Lettered four times in football … helped the Ironmen finish as the state runners-up … first team all-county honoree … twice made the all-league team … started 28 career games on the offensive line.
Personal: Jacob Robert Guy … born May 3, 2003 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania … son of Sloane and Libbie Guy … father played football at Wake Forest University and is a veteran … grandfather, Forrest Guy, played football at Howard University.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Jake is an intelligent, brawling interior offensive lineman. He has the ability to anchor our offensive line for years to come."
🤖▶️🦬
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
OL Jake Guy (@_Jake_Guy) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/J7PQv3U5mV
Brad Jamison
LB, 6-3, 215, Upper Township, N.J., Ocean City
Ocean City High School: Lettered three times in football, four times in track & field and once in basketball … in football, made the Press of Atlantic City First Team and the All-West Jersey Football League Second Team … helped the Red Raiders win the 2020 Pod B title with a 6-2 record and reach the 2019 Group 4 championship game … played on both sides of the ball … as a senior, logged 43 tackles, seven tackles for a loss, one defensive touchdown and 10 receptions for 131 yards and three touchdowns … as a junior, posted 77 tackles, 8.5 tackles for a loss, 3.5 sacks and 18 receptions for 337 yards and five touchdowns … served as team captain.
Personal: Bradley David Jamison … born March 24, 2003 in Somers Point, New Jersey … son of Thomas and Leslie Jamison … has two older siblings: Ashley and Tommy … uncle Tim Watson was a defensive tackle for the Seattle Seahawks … uncles Mike and Matt Jamison played football at West Chester University … grandfather Jack Neall played football at William & Mary University … aunt Courtney Watson played basketball at the University of Delaware … cousin Patrick Kimball played football at the College of New Jersey … cousin Kylee Watson is a member of the University of Oregon basketball team's class of 2024.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Brad is a long, athletic linebacker who is extremely intelligent and can make plays sideline to sideline."
Big Bad Brad 👿
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
LB Brad Jamison (@jamisonbrad33) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/45C9yS2VNu
Grant Jones
OL, 6-6, 295, Ridgefield, Conn., Ridgefield/Deerfield Academy (Mass.)
Ridgefield High School: Lettered in football … helped the Tigers reach the state playoffs with an 8-2 record as a senior … recognized by the Excel Sports Academy of New England as a Top High School/Prep School Tackle for the Class of 2021 … shifted to offensive line from tight end upon making varsity team … spent a postgraduate year at the Deerfield Academy.
Personal: Grant William Jones … born January 31, 2002 in Danbury, Connecticut … son of John and Pamme Jones … has two siblings: Sophie and Evan … father rowed at Boston College … uncle, Ron Lelko, was an All-American football player at Bloomsburg University and had tryouts with the Arizona Cardinals and the New Orleans Saints … aunt, Susan Lelko, was an All-American soccer player at Case Western Reserve University.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Grant is a long, bookend type of offensive tackle who can nullify an opposing Patriot League defensive end's pass rush."
Won't Take Him For Granted 🚫
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
OL Grant Jones (@Grant__Jones_) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/z0D439IgVq
Paul Neel
RB, 5-10, 185, Charlotte, N.C., Charlotte Catholic
Charlotte Catholic High School: Lettered in football and track & field … helped the Cougar football team win three-straight 3A state championships (2017-19) … selected as the MVP of the 2019 state title game … honored on the all-county and all-conference teams … ran for 3,051 yards and 40 touchdowns through junior year … in the state record seven overtime regional finals, scored three touchdowns in overtime, including the game winner … in track, qualified for the state championships in the 4x100 relay.
Personal: Paul Alexander Neel … born June 30, 2003 in Charlotte, North Carolina … son of Eddie and Susan Neel … has an older brother, Michael, who is a member of the University of Dayton football team's class of 2023 … father played football at Virginia Tech.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Paul is a fast and explosive running back who will be a potent weapon in our offensive scheme."
"Real Deal" Neel: Fast & Smooth 💨
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
RB Paul Neel (@paulneel02) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/861tSuvtWE
Nick Niemynski
K, 6-1, 180, Blue Bell, Pa., Germantown Academy
Germantown Academy: Lettered four times in football … over course of career, went 98 for 101 on extra points and 10 for 14 on field goals … All-Inter-Ac kicker … team's Special Teams Player of the Year … graduated with the Patriots' second-longest field goal in program history … that 47-yard field goal came with 2.3 seconds left in Germantown Academy's 2019 game against Episcopal Academy, sending it to overtime and an eventual 56-55 Patriot win … recovered four career onside kicks … helped Germantown Academy go 8-2 in 2019 … the Patriots went 3-1 in a shortened 2020 season, earning a No. 10 ranking in Southeastern Pennsylvania … played soccer up until freshman year of high school.
Personal: Nicholas Karol Niemynski … born September 2, 2002 in Abington, Pennsylvania … son of Mirek and Christine Niemynski … has two older brothers: Andrew and David … aunt, Heather Musman, played soccer at St. Olaf College.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Nick is a versatile kicker with a great leg. We are looking forward to the impact he is going to have on our special teams."
Location: Between Your Uprights 🙌
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
K Nick Niemynski (@NickNiemynski) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/yQJnn8aJJ7
Will Ohler
DL, 6-4, 230, Sudbury, Mass., Lincoln-Sudbury Regional
Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School: Lettered in football and lacrosse … in football, helped the Warriors reach the state finals and win conference and sectional titles as a junior … Lincoln-Sudbury also won a conference championship and reached the sectional finals in 2018 … all-league honoree … served as team captain as a senior … logged 50 tackles, five sacks, 10 quarterback hurries, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery as a junior.
Personal: William Michael Ohler … born December 27, 2002 in Boston, Massachusetts … son of Marc and Susan Ohler … has two brothers: Ben and Luke … grandfather, Michael Delduchetto, played football at St. Lawrence University … mother played field hockey at DePauw University … wears a purple mouthguard in honor of his grandfather, who passed away from pancreatic cancer.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Will is big, strong and physical. He has a high motor and is not afraid to make his presence known in the backfield."
Location: Your Backfield 🗺️📍
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
DL Will Ohler (@WillOhler) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/Djr9MHKFVB
Marques Owens
WR, 5-10, 170, Austell, Ga., Harrison
Carl J. Harrison High School: Lettered in football, basketball and track & field … in football, was a first team all-region, second team all-county and honorable mention all-state wide receiver … served as offensive team captain as a senior … made the Cobb County Touchdown Club All-County Offensive Team … 2020 Recruit Georgia 7A Preseason All-State honoree … helped the Hoyas win the 2019 Georgia 6A state championship with a 15-0 record … that season, posted 743 yards and nine touchdowns on 25 receptions … in basketball, made the honorable mention all-region team and the Pensacola Beach Basketball Tournament All-Tournament Team … also served as team captain.
Personal: Marques Justin Owens … born January 10, 2003 in Austell, Georgia … son of Norman and Rhonda Owens … has two older siblings: Toni and Juwan … has a cousin, Jordan Anderson, who is a member of Lafayette College's class of 2022.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Marques is a dynamic wide receiver who has the talent to make an immediate impact with our program. His speed, toughness and playmaking ability are all off the charts."
Speed Kills, TDs Thrill 💨‼️
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
WR Marques Owens (@marqowens10) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/jhTgKEMj11
Joe Ramos
LB, 6-2, 205, Staten Island, N.Y., Blair Academy (N.J.)
Blair Academy: Lettered in football and basketball … in football, was an all-state selection and first team all-league honoree … as a junior, made 103 tackles in 11 games … as a senior, helped the Buccaneers go 8-0 by forcing 10 turnovers … spent a postgraduate year at the Peddie School.
Personal: Joseph Brian Ramos … born December 3, 2002 in Staten Island, New York … son of Brian and Laura Ramos … has four siblings: Vinny, Vanessa, Victoria and Justin.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Joe has everything you look for in a great linebacker. He has the speed to both cover and run sideline to sideline and also the strength and tenacity to be a great blitzer."
The Staten Island Stud 💪
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
LB Joe Ramos (@JoeRamos_7) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/LXUuaNbDEm
Ethan Robinson
CB, 6-1, 175, Montgomery, N.Y., Iona Prep
Iona Preparatory School: Lettered in football … three-year varsity starter … Super 11 Nominee … helped the Gaels win 2019 division and conference titles, posting an 8-1 record … that season, logged 35 tackles (12 solo), 11 pass breakups and one interception … served as team captain and on team's leadership committee … played basketball through junior year of high school … was a quarterback during Pop Warner and Town League days.
Personal: Louis Ethan Robinson … born April 30, 2003 in Bronxville, New York … son of Louis and Tawanda Robinson … has one younger sibling: Jayden.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Ethan is a confident and determined athlete who has the ability to develop into a true lockdown corner in the Patriot League."
High Energy at the Speed of Light ⚡️
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
CB Ethan Robinson (@Ethan_2Rob) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/wV7mLEkLpU
Ray Russell
CB, 6-0. 185, Broadlands, Va., Briar Woods
Briar Woods High School: Lettered in football and track & field … served on the football team's leadership council … held opposing quarterbacks to a 50 passer rating when targeted … was named the freshman football team's defensive MVP.
Personal: Reagan Alexander Russell … born October 30, 2002 in Leesburg, Virginia … son of Robert and Kay Russell … has two older siblings: Cameron and Sam … Sam was a women's soccer player at James Madison University.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Reagan is a complete cornerback with long range, great instincts and the ability to judge the football in the deep area of the field."
Shutdown Corner Engineering Picks 🔒
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
CB Ray Russell (@reaganruss21) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/N9Mhnv55kB
Mason Taylor
CB, 6-2, 180, San Pedro, Calif., Adelanto
Adelanto High School: Lettered in football and track & field … in football, helped team win the 2018 CIF title and reach the 2019 CIF semifinals … two-time All-CIF defensive back … served as team captain as a senior … transferred to Adelanto from Silverado High School in the middle of sophomore year.
Personal: Mason Donavyn Taylor … born April 24, 2003 in San Pedro, California … son of Melvin and Clarisa Taylor … has two siblings: Elizah and Desmond.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Mason is a long cornerback who plays the game with a chip on his shoulder. He also has an outstanding ability to high point the football when it is in the air."
Human Highlight Reel 📽️
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
CB Mason Taylor (@may_donavyn) is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/cW02viDzCq
Aneesh Vyas
DL, 6-2, 265, West Chester, Ohio, Lakota West
Lakota West High School: Lettered three times in football and three times in wrestling … in football, was a second team Ohio Division 1 All-State, a first team All-Southwest Ohio and a two-time first team All-Greater Miami Conference selection … started all 30 varsity games on the defensive line … in 2020, Lakota West posted a school-best 8-1 record … helped the Firebirds allow just over five points per game that season … ended Colerain High School's 87-game conference win streak with a shutout … held the eventual state champion, No. 20 St. Xavier High School, to 10 points, 26 fewer than its season average … led all Lakota West defensive linemen with 5.5 sacks in 2020 … served as team captain … in wrestling, was a district qualifier.
Personal: Aneesh Parixit Vyas … born July 7, 2003 in Jackson, Michigan … son of Parixit and Veronica Vyas … has two siblings: Sameer and Arya father played cricket at the M.G. Science Institute … has lived in five different states … was a member of Lakota West's Academic Quiz Team.
Coach Cecchini's Scouting Report: "Aneesh has unbelievable footwork, tenacity and explosiveness. He plays the game with an incredibly high football IQ."
Aneesh The Beast 😤
— Bucknell Football (@Bucknell_FB) December 16, 2020
DL Aneesh Vyas is the #NextToBeHerd!#NSD21 | #rayBucknell pic.twitter.com/ZgbJO1uomG
Bucknell Men's Basketball Post Game: Patriot League Tournament 1st Round vs Navy
Wednesday, March 04
In The Herd: Patriot League Opening Round Game Preview And Achile Spadone Feature
Monday, March 02
In The Herd: EIWA Championships Preview And Dillon Bechtold Feature
Monday, March 02
ECAC OPEN SWIMMING & DIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS (3/01/26 - Sunday Finals Session)
Monday, March 02