Purdue gained its sixth commitment in the class of 2014 today when it landed a punter. This is a position of need, as Cody Webster is entering his fourth and final season as Purdue's starting punter and will need to be replaced anew. Webster will be among the best in the conference this year, so finding his replacement was a key priority.
Just committed to Purdue on full scholarship! #boilerup
— Austin McGehee (@kickanumba2) June 28, 2013
McGehee will be that replacement and very likely will start from day one. Thomas Meadows or Paul Griggs could fill-in if things don't work out, but for the most part McGehee was recruited to be an immediate starter. He is an unranked recruit according to Rivals, meaning he will likely be a two-star when all is said and done. He's listed as being 6'1". 200 pounds from Pine Bluff, Arkansas.
According to the Chris Sailer kicking website he is one of the top kicking prospects in the nation:
Austin is a very talented kicker. He has a big leg and makes kicks with nice consistency off the ground. Shows excellent technique. Kickoffs are near the top of his class. Also developing into a fine punting prospect. A hard working athlete that has taken his game to a new level. One of the hardest workers I know. Should have a big summer impressing college coaches across the nation. Nice prospect.
With Meadows currently serving on kickoffs we could see McGehee move into that role once Meadows is gone after the 2015 season. Purdue beat out Alabama, Iowa, and Arkansas for his services, so it is nice to beat out two SEC schools (one of them being Alabama) for a guy even if he is a punter.