Purdue Football Recruiting: 2018 Linebackers Class

The staff has said many times they really like the linebackers who are about to be sophomores. After losing 4 LBS to graduation, you would expect to see a larger freshman class. Instead, we are only bringing in two Linebackers. Two, very talented linebackers though.

Don’t expect these guys to start, but I could see them being used in special teams, much like the soon to be sophomores were used this past season. So, lets take a look at who these guys are.

Jaylan Alexander - 6’1”, 230 Pounds, Linebackers, Hoffman Estates, Illinois, 3*

Other Offers: Bowling Green, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Western Kentucky

Jaylan reminds me of a Boilermaker that just graduated, Ja’Whaun Bentley. Jaylan is a run stopping inside backer, a big hitting, thud type guy - which fits perfect in the Nick Holt defense. Holt asks his linebackers to be downhill run first - Jaylan can fill that role. Jaylan was the first commit of 2018 that got this train rolling on this great recruiting class. He was always actively recruiting on social media, trying to get others to commit.

Jack Smith - 6’3”, 205 Pounds, Linebacker, Lakeland, Florida, 3*

Other Offers: Cincinnati, Missouri, Syracuse, Western Kentucky, Florida State (Interest)

Jack is the definition of a strong side outside linebacker. He can move and is a downhill attacker. Jack was a surprise on national signing day. We needed another linebacker in this class and Jack was it. His coach said if he was 215 pounds during the season, that Florida State, Florida, Miami would have all offered.

I am excited to have these two guys on our roster this upcoming year. Boiler Up!