New Jersey Recruit Javer Garrett Impressed By Indiana's Academics and Athletics

Written By Alex Compton

New Jersey is a long ways away from Bloomington, but that may not be too big of a deal when it comes to securing the services of linebacker Javar Garrett. A native of Penns Grove, New Jersey, Garrett has secured an offer from the Hoosiers and is now in the process of gathering more information about each of the schools battling for his commitment. Garret is transferring to play at the Peddie school in New Jersey and has reclassified as a 20118 recruit.

At 6’2” and 205lbs, Garrett certainly looks like the prototypical Big Ten linebacker. Much like the other players Tom Allen has started to recruit during his short tenure, Garrett flies around the field and just makes plays. With a knack for stuffing the run up the middle while still being quick enough to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game. This versatility makes Garrett a very attractive target for many schools, IU included. At this point, the three-star prospect in the class of 2018 has two other offers, coming from Rutgers and Temple. He will undoubtedly earn more offers from power conference schools in the coming season, so it is important that the Hoosiers make an impression on him early. While Garrett admitted he didn’t know much about IU’s program at this point, he does know about the academic prestige of the University, and that sticks out to him.

“I honestly don’t know much [about them], but I do know that their academics are ranked #3 in the Big Ten.”

Indiana beats out many other power conference schools in terms of the academic experience that student-athletes receive, so this is likely something that the coaching staff will emphasize during his recruitment. If the staff can show Garrett what they have to offer on the field as well, it would be very likely that Indiana would have a solid shot at landing him in 2018. In this case a visit would be more valuable than normal, and Garrett does want to take one in the near future. 

“I want to be able to come out there this summer, and possibly check out a game this year if I’m lucky.” 

The interest is certainly there, and it now appears that the ball lies in the staff’s court. While 2018 seems like it is an eternity from now, building solid classes starts long before signing day. Indiana has caught the eye of three-star linebacker Javar Garrett, but only time will tell where he ultimately ends up.