One of Notre Dame’s longest recruiting commitments has finally made it official. Jacob Matuska’s letter-of-intent just came into the Gug and the Irish will welcome another power player to their front seven. Let’s take a closer look at Matuska.
JACOB MATUSKA
Columbus, Ohio
Measureables: 6-foot-4, 235-pounds
Accolades: First-team All-Ohio Division IV. AP All-Central District tight end. First-team tight end All Metro, by Columbus Dispatch. Three-star recruit by Rivals, 247 and ESPN. Matuska’s Bishop Hartley squad handily beat Jaylon Smith’s Bishop Luers team.
Impressive Offers: Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Florida
Projected Position: Defensive End
Quick Take: Another early commit to the Irish that doesn’t necessarily have elite offers, Matuska was identified early by the coaching staff as someone that could play on the edge of the Irish defense. After watching this staff identify players like Kona Schwenke and Tony Springmann, it’s clear that they know what works for them.
Matuska’s an impressive athlete that shines as an offensive player. While tight end could be an option, the Irish staff projected Matuska’s athleticism and size to pay off as an outside linebacker or defensive end, depending on how quickly he fills out his 6-foot-4 frame.
What it means for the Irish roster: Add another power-sized body to the defensive depth chart. Matuska’s development can take some time, but there’s significant turnover coming at these positions with guys like Prince Shembo, Kona Schwenke, and Danny Spond exhausting their eligibility next season and Stephon Tuitt having the option to pursue a professional career after 2013 as well.
Obligatory YouTube highlight tape: Here’s a highlight reel from Matuska’s junior year, with him showing off both his tight end and defensive skills.
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