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As far as top incoming freshmen go in the eastern United States and beyond, it starts and stops with lineman Joseph Russo.
This 6-foot-3, 280-pound 2026 prospect is one of the most highly touted players in the country. Russo has not yet decided where he will attend high school, but it will likely be in New Jersey or New York area.
“I’m not sure the last time I had a prospect like this entering high school,” said Coach Lou Perrone of the well-know recruiting service, “My Recruits.”
His measurables are below:
Wing span: 77 inches
Hand size: 10 inches
Bench press: 285 pounds
Squat: 405 pounds
40-yard dash: 5.3 seconds
Broad jump: 76 inches
Shuttle: 2.41 seconds
Pro agility: 5.19 seconds
Leg press: 990 pounds (10 reps)
The measurables say all that needs to be said about Russo. Coaches across the Division I ranks will want to get in on this guy early.
The rare combination of size, power and athleticism at such a young age is hard to pass up.