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Thanks to GBI finally getting around to publishing the freshman numbers (Purdue Sports still hasn't) we can begin to include some incoming freshmen in this countdown, including today.
John Vargyas - So.
Wheaton, IL (St. Francis HS)
5'11", 250 pounds
Long Snapper
2016 Projection: reserve at Long Snapper
Vargyas joined the team last season as a walk-on and he is now the third long snapper we have on the roster. Like almost every long snapper in the country now, he went through the Chris Sailer Kicking and Rubio Long Snapping academy. This is what they said about him:
John did very well for his first Rubio Long Snapping camp. He has a nice, thick frame and is strong. Upper body is very strong and he uses it well. I would like to see him get his head all the way through a bit more smoothly and make sure he leans back with each snap. Getting back to block will be a major key for him as gets ready for the next level. Lots of potential and a great start.
This also means MORE LONG SNAPPER HIGHLIGHTS!!!
Rob Simmons - Jr.
Philadelphia, PA (Valley Forge Military Academy)
6'6", 215 pounds
Defensive End
2016 Projection: Reserve at Defensive End
One of Purdue's last commitments in the class of 2016 was Rob Simmons, a defensive end from Valley Forge Military Academy. He comes at a position of need as a defensive end, but he is very thin for the position and has only been playing football for three years. He still had double digit sacks as a JuCo last season: