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ESU Football Reloads with 42 Recruits Ahead of Ambitious 2025 Season

7/21/2025 11:23:00 AM

East Stroudsburg, PA — The East Stroudsburg University football program is gearing up for a thrilling 2025 season, bolstered by a powerhouse incoming class of 42 newcomers. This diverse and dynamic group represents a wide range of hometowns, positions, and championship pedigrees—with talent stretching across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and even Texas. From Super Honor Roll standouts and state champions to versatile athletes with leadership accolades, these Warriors bring grit, speed, and academic ambition to one of the PSAC's most tradition-rich programs. With aspirations ranging from finance and computer science to education and medicine, ESU's newest recruits reflect the team's commitment to excellence both on the field and in the classroom.

Jachai Littlejohn (Irvington, NJ) A commanding linebacker from Irvington High School, Littlejohn enters ESU with a résumé full of honors. A three-year varsity starter and Defensive MVP, he earned 3rd Team All-State and First Team All-Conference/Group 5 honors. Jachai racked up an impressive 264 tackles, 43 tackles for loss, and 5 interceptions. Off the field, he's a Super Honor Roll student aiming to become a CPA and launch his own accounting firm. Major: Accounting

Justin "JC" Corchado (Katy, TX / Elmont, NY) Corchado brings dynamic coverage skills to ESU's secondary. Out of Cinco Ranch High School, he excelled as an All-District defensive back with 80 tackles, 2 interceptions, 4 forced fumbles, and 10 tackles for loss. His versatility is expected to shine at nickelback/rover positions. He's also an All-District 19 6A Honor Roll recipient, reflecting balance in athletics and academics. Major/Minor: Undecided

Alexander "Alex" Grippo (Vineland, NJ) A powerful linebacker from Delsea Regional High School, Grippo posted 91 tackles his junior year while helping his team secure its first-ever state championship. A member of the Superintendent's List, Alex plans to study Computer Science and set himself up for success beyond the gridiron. Major: Computer Science

Mason Bynum (Hatboro, PA) A speedy running back from Hatboro-Horsham High School, Bynum enters as a top returning senior with a clear goal: win championships. His team recently made its first playoff appearance in 17 years, and Mason looks to carry that winning momentum to ESU. Major: Finance

Rocco May (Yardley, PA) Hailing from Pennsbury High School, May is an imposing force on the offensive line. Standing 6'2" and weighing 300 pounds, he served as team captain and was named Offensive Player of the Year while helping lead his squad to a SOL National Championship. Off the field, he's a member of both the National Honor Society and the National Business Honor Society. Rocco will major in Finance with a minor in Business and hopes to pursue a successful career in financial services. Position: Offensive Line Major: Finance Minor: Business

Joshua "Josh" Wright (Montvale, NJ) Josh Wright arrives from Pascack Hills High School with a multifaceted background, having excelled in football, basketball, and track and field. At 6'3" and 240 pounds, he's slated to bolster the Warriors' defensive front at defensive end. A leader in the classroom and community, Josh served as President of his school's Black Student Union and was an Honors Student. He also participated in the Interact Club and aspires to one day become a CEO. Position: Defensive End Major: Communications Minor: Psychology

Dylan Grau (Marlton, NJ) A towering offensive lineman at 6'4½" and 340 pounds, Grau anchored Cherokee High School's offensive front en route to a South Jersey Sectional Championship. A model of consistency and domination, he earned First Team honors in All-South Jersey, All-Conference, and All-Group 5, plus Second Team All-State recognition. Dylan's aspirations reach beyond the gridiron, with plans to pursue federal law enforcement through a Criminal Justice major and Psychology minor. Position: Offensive Line Major: Criminal Justice Minor: Psychology

Cole Ferrara (Baltimore, MD) Dual-sport athlete Ferrara joins ESU as a defensive end following a celebrated career at Calvert Hall College High School in football and lacrosse. A BTC All-Star MVP and MIAA All-Conference honoree, Cole amassed 65+ tackles, 20+ tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and a touchdown during his senior season. With a 3.95 GPA and honor roll status every semester, Cole is determined to continue his excellence in the classroom while pursuing a future in medicine. Position: Defensive End Major: Biology Minor: Pre-Med

Madden Patrick (Danville, PA) Patrick arrives as one of Pennsylvania's most decorated quarterbacks, rewriting the District 4 record books with 98 career passing touchdowns and 7,589 passing yards. A three-time First Team All-State, All-Area, and Dream Team selection, Madden led Danville Area High School to four straight District 4 Class 3A titles and the most wins in school history. Beyond his arm talent, he demonstrated academic leadership as Class Historian and National Honor Society member. Position: Quarterback Major: Education.

Brock Rhoades (Smyrna, DE) A dominant linebacker from Caravel Academy, Rhoades arrives with an unmatched high school record. A four-time All-Conference and three-time All-State selection, he finished his prep career with over 350 tackles while helping lead his team to two state titles and a 47-3 overall record. A member of the 100 Win and Pin wrestling club and a consistent Highest Honor Roll student with a 4.0 GPA, Brock's goals extend beyond the field: he aims to etch his name into ESU football history. Position: Linebacker Major/Minor: Undecided

Ja'kir Thomas (Carteret, NJ) Thomas heads to ESU as a speedy, high-energy defensive back with impressive offensive credentials. A four-year starter at Carteret High School, he accumulated 3,500 career yards and 40 touchdowns, earning All-Division, All-County, All-Area, and All-Group 3 honors across offense and defense. Known for his resilience and leadership, Ja'kir received CJ Sports Radio's "Longevity" Award and will pursue personal growth alongside academic studies in Psychology and Communication. Position: Defensive Back Major: Psychology Minor: Communication

Zachery Padilla (Freehold, NJ) A multi-sport athlete at Howell High School, Padilla excelled in football, basketball, and track. Known for his lockdown coverage and physical play, he earned numerous honors including Defensive MVP, Underclassman of the Year, First Team All-Shore, and Second Team All-Division. His defensive résumé includes 3 interceptions, 5 pass breakups, 35 tackles, and 2 touchdowns. Zachery helped lead his team to a state playoff berth and earned Academic Honor Roll recognition. He intends to major in Business Management and aims to become a top defender in the PSAC while maintaining a 3.5+ GPA. Position: Cornerback Major: Business Management

Connor Frederick (Langhorne, PA) Frederick brings sure hands and high energy to the ESU offense from Neshaminy High School. A 6'1", 210-pound tight end, he posted 670 receiving yards on 62 catches with 6 touchdowns in his senior season. He earned a Varsity Letter, 1st Team All-Area, 1st Team All-SOL, and was named Mr. Redskin (team MVP). Honored as one of the team's hardest workers with the 3D Award, Connor also maintained Honor Roll status. He enters ESU with strong leadership qualities and plans to continue making an impact both on the field and in the classroom. Position: Tight End Major/Minor: Undecided

Jalen Cook (York, PA) Cook arrives from Dallastown Area High School as a powerful and agile wide receiver. At 6'2", 190 pounds, he racked up 1,001 all-purpose yards, 27 receptions, and 16 total touchdowns, including a pick-six fumble return on defense. Named First Team All-County on both offense and defense and serving as team captain, Jalen led his squad to a strong 9–1 season. An Honor Roll student with his sights set on becoming a Physical Education teacher, he's a natural leader ready to make noise in the PSAC. Position: Wide Receiver Major: Physical Education

Matthew Smith (Columbia, MD) Smith brings strength and tenacity to the defensive line. From Concordia Preparatory School, the 5'11", 285-pound tackle recorded 5 sacks, 50 tackles, and a forced fumble en route to a 2023 MIAA B Conference Championship. He also holds the school's shotput record, highlighting his multi-sport dominance. Off the field, Matt is a National Honor Society member and Honor Roll student who plans to major in Accounting with dreams of launching his own business. Position: Defensive Tackle Major: Accounting Minor: Undecided

Parker Johnson (Williamsport, PA) From Williamsport Area High School, Johnson is a multi-sport standout making waves as a specialist. He earned First Team PHAC Kicker & Punter honors, was named First Team All-Eastern PA Punter, and served as captain for varsity swimming while setting multiple school records. With 11 of 13 field goals made, 33 touchbacks, and 19 punts downed inside the 20-yard line, Parker is a precision weapon on special teams. He plans to major in Exercise Science with a concentration in Sport & Exercise Conditioning and aims to become an All-American at ESU. Position: Kicker/Punter Major: Exercise Science Concentration: Sport & Exercise Conditioning

Andrew Smith (Lewisburg, PA) Smith brings power and consistency to the offensive line. Standing 6'3" and weighing 275 pounds, the Lewisburg High School product is a three-year football and baseball letterman. He earned 2x Offensive Lineman of the Year, the Hammer Award, 2x PHAC First Team OL, and recognition by the Sun Gazette and Daily Item. With team success that included a HAC III Championship and a District 4 3A Semifinal appearance, Andrew now shifts focus to earning his Sports Management degree while anchoring ESU's front line. Position: Offensive Tackle Major: Sports Management

Carter Redding (Reading, PA) Redding arrives from Exeter Township High School after leading his team to a District 3 5A title. Named Lancaster-Lebanon WR of the Year and All-Berks County receiver, Carter recorded 37 receptions for 686 yards and 14 touchdowns during his senior season. His clutch ability and route-running precision will add depth to ESU's receiving corps. A member of the Lancaster-Lebanon All-Academic Team, Redding enters as a freshman with a strong work ethic and an open mind about future academic paths. Position: Wide Receiver Major/Minor: Undecided

Jared Goldman (Lake Ariel, PA) Goldman, a 6'3", 290-pound force from Western Wayne High School, helped lead his program to its best season record in school history. A National Honor Society member, Jared brings academic focus and athletic dominance to ESU's offensive line. His size and fundamentals offer immediate impact potential in the trenches. Position: Offensive Lineman Major: Business

Montre "Trickyy" Wilson (Pemberton, NJ) Wilson joins the Warriors after an explosive senior campaign at Rancocas Valley High School. A team captain and multi-award recipient—including All South Jersey ATH and RV's First D.A.W.G. Award—he posted 941 all-purpose yards, 14 touchdowns, 4 interceptions, and 9 tackles for loss. On top of that, Montre was instrumental in his team's undefeated home season and Group 5 sectional championship run. He also competes in basketball and maintains Honor Roll status academically. Position: Defensive Back Major: Financial Analysts Minor: Physical Education

Jackson Jankowicz (Hillsborough, NJ) Jankowicz joins the Warriors as a record-setting running back from Hillsborough High School. At 5'9", 180 pounds, he rushed for 2,000 yards and 30 touchdowns in a single season, setting multiple school records. A member of the most successful graduating class in program history, Jackson earned All-State RB honors and has plans to play in the NFL before opening his own training facility. Position: Running Back Major: Exercise Science Minor: Business Management

Leyden Hertz (Schuylkill Haven, PA) A decorated defensive back from Schuylkill Haven High School, Hertz arrives with a résumé that includes 2x All-State First Team, Mini Maxwell Award, and Super 16 Dream Team honors. He amassed 12 career interceptions, 151 tackles, and delivered game-changing plays across special teams. Academically, Leyden was a Distinguished Honors student and National Honor Society member. His focus at ESU? Win, work nonstop, and lead by example. Position: Defensive Back Major: Entrepreneurship Minor: Business Management

Noah Cruz (Vineland, NJ) Cruz, a three-year starter from Vineland High School, brings a physical presence to ESU's linebacker corps. He totaled over 285 career tackles and earned First Team All-Conference honors. With a 3.5 GPA and a mission to become All-American, Cruz aims to make an immediate impact at inside linebacker. Position: Inside Linebacker Major: Business Minor: Entrepreneurship

Reggie "Big Reg" Bennett (Freehold, NJ) The Warriors bolster their defensive front with Bennett, a powerful 6'0", 285-pound tackle from Manalapan High School. Bennett recorded 45 total tackles, 6 for loss, and a forced fumble during his senior season, helping lead his team to its first home playoff win in four years. An Honor Roll student, Reggie plans to become a gym teacher, football coach, and trainer dedicated to helping the next generation of athletes. Position: Defensive Tackle Major: Physical Education

Cam Demma (Columbia, MD) Demma arrives as a relentless linebacker out of Howard High School. As a senior, he tallied 125 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 6 interceptions, and 5 forced fumbles, including a 70-yard pick-six. His honors include All-State, All-Met, and Defensive Player of the Year while leading his team to a county championship. Off the field, Cam is an honors student and plans to major in Finance with a minor in Exercise Science as he works toward launching his own training business. Position: Linebacker Major: Finance Minor: Exercise Science

Mykell Ford (Reading, PA) Ford comes to ESU with dominance in the trenches after a standout career at Roman Catholic High School. A First Team All-State selection, Big 33 Game invitee, and multiple All-League and All-County honoree, Mykell posted 215 tackles, 2 interceptions, and even scored a rushing touchdown. At 6'0", 250 pounds, he brings explosiveness and maturity to the defensive tackle position and has his sights set on long-term success in life and football. Position: Defensive Tackle Major/Minor: Undeclared

Cameron Waller (Pottstown, PA) Waller, a versatile 6'3" tight end from Pottsgrove High School, earned All-PAC recognition on both sides of the ball. His combination of size, speed, and willingness to battle in the trenches makes him a promising addition to the Warriors offense. Cam will major in Entrepreneurship as he sets his sights on building both his athletic and business foundation at ESU. Position: Tight End Major: Entrepreneurship Minor: Undecided

Kameryn "Kam" Alex (Downingtown, PA) Alex returns to the backfield following a decorated high school career at Downingtown West, where he earned First Team Linebacker honors as a junior and Second Team Running Back recognition as a senior. With over 1,000 rushing yards and 60 solo tackles to his name, Kam was awarded the Edward J. Campbell Coaches' Award for his unwavering commitment to football. He helped lead his team to a Ches-Mont Championship and is now majoring in Computer Science at ESU, guided by the motto: "Do what I love and love what I do." Position: Running Back Major: Computer Science

Koi Bennett (East Orange, NJ) Standing at 6'5", 240 pounds, Bennett brings physicality and fierce drive to ESU's defensive line. A graduate of Roselle Catholic High School and a TOC champion, Koi's ambitions extend well beyond college football. With his sights set on a professional career and Hall of Fame aspirations, he's working toward his Sports Management degree while grinding each day to maximize his potential. Position: Defensive End Major: Sports Management

Joseph Fuller (New Freedom, PA) Fuller joins the Warriors from Susquehannock High School, where he starred in football and basketball, earning First Team honors twice and taking home MVP of the All-Star Game. With 40 receptions for 500 yards over two seasons, Joe brings reliable hands and fluid route running to the ESU offense. He's ready to launch his Sports Management studies and is laser-focused on reaching the NFL. Position: Wide Receiver Major: Sports Management

Jacahi Streeter (Philadelphia, PA) Streeter brings lightning-fast footwork and leadership to ESU from Douglas County High School in Georgia. A 3-sport varsity letterman, Jacahi rushed for 1,040 yards and 13 touchdowns while contributing 29 tackles defensively. His high school squad ranked #11 nationally, and his accolades include All-Catholic, All-Region, and 6A All-Team honors. Streeter plans to study Sports Management and continue being a supportive and dynamic teammate. Position: Running Back Major: Sports Management

Nekhi Spencer (East Stroudsburg, PA) A hometown standout from East Stroudsburg High School South, Spencer joins the Warriors as a sophomore cornerback. His impressive high school résumé includes First Team All-EPC honors at cornerback, Second Team EPC recognition at wide receiver, and a McDonald's All-Star selection. Across his varsity career, Nekhi tallied 56 total tackles, 11 pass breakups, 4 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, and added 5 touchdowns with over 500 receiving yards. A member of the EPC Student Athletic Council, his next goal is earning First Team PSAC honors and helping lead ESU to a conference title. Position: Cornerback 

Anthony Casale (Morristown, NJ) Casale enters East Stroudsburg University from powerhouse Don Bosco Prep, where he competed in one of New Jersey's toughest football environments. At 5'11", 195 pounds, Casale played on a squad that reached three state championship games and won the 2022 Super Football Conference United Red League title. With a championship mindset and versatile skills, he looks to establish himself at linebacker while pursuing his ultimate goal: bringing hardware home to ESU. Position: Linebacker 

Bryan Ingram (Cuyahoga Falls, OH) A freshman cornerback from McKinley Senior High School, Bryan joins the Warriors after developing a strong foundation both on the field and in leadership organizations like track and his Christian program. At 5'10.5", 151 pounds, Ingram offers agility and discipline at the cornerback position. He will major in Psychology with a minor in Sociology and aspires to reach graduation while growing as a student-athlete. Position: Cornerback Major: Psychology Minor: Sociology

Nolan Buzalka (Mechanicsburg, PA) Buzalka, a senior tight end from Cumberland Valley High School, arrives at ESU as an All-State honoree with accolades on both sides of the ball. Standing 6'3", 230 pounds, Nolan also shined on the basketball court, scoring over 1,000 points and helping lead his team to district finals. He will major in Business Management and looks forward to building a successful career and family. Position: Tight End Major: Business Management

Emmanuel "Manny" Alexander (Bear, DE) Alexander makes a powerful entrance at 6'6", 340 pounds as a senior offensive tackle from Saint George Technical High School. Manny earned First Team All-State, All-District, and All-Conference honors while ranking 15th out of 150 players in Delaware. A team captain, his leadership and dominance in the trenches make him a vital asset on ESU's offensive front. He'll pursue a Business major with plans to turn his competitive edge into entrepreneurial success. Position: Offensive Tackle Major: Business Minor: Business

Lidge Kellum (West Pittston, PA) Kellum headlines this group as a record-setting running back from Wyoming Area High School. With over 2,200 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns—including a kick return score—Lidge's vision and acceleration made him District 2 MVP, a Mini Maxwell Award winner, and an All-State selection. He helped lead his team to WVC championship glory and a district final appearance. Lidge will major in Business and minor in Sports Management, with ambitions to coach or run his own business after graduation. Position: Running Back Major: Business Minor: Sports Management

Adam Youwakim (Whitehall, PA) A senior defensive lineman from Whitehall High School, Youwakim boasts All-Conference and First Team Lehigh Valley accolades. He was named Team MVP and led his squad to back-to-back District 11 titles. Off the field, Adam earned high honor roll distinction and graduated with a Gold Cord for more than 100 hours of community service. He will pursue dual majors in Sports Business and Physiology, with involvement in religious programs on campus. Position: Defensive Line Majors: Sports Business and Physiology Minors: Business and Religious Studies

Andre Wiest (Dallastown, PA) Wiest, a 6'4" freshman edge rusher from Dallastown Area High School, brings length and athleticism off the edge. Recognized as a Second Team All-Star, Andre plans to major in Finance and pursue a professional football career. Position: Edge Major: Finance

Jaden Farrell (Middletown, NY) A senior wide receiver with championship experience, Farrell transfers to ESU after competing at Wagner College. He starred at Middletown High School, earning All-Section honors in both his junior and senior years and helping lead his team to the Section 9 title in 2021. Standing 6'0", 185 pounds, Jaden combines size, strength, and route-running ability. He will major in Exercise Science and brings a steady presence to the Warrior receiving corps. Position: Wide Receiver Major: Exercise Science

William "Will" Day (Easton, PA) Day arrives as a freshman tailback and one of the most decorated offensive players in the region. At Easton Area High School, he rushed for 1,107 yards on 170 carries, scored 22 total touchdowns, and added 90 receiving yards. His honors include 6A All-State Defensive Specialist, Mini Max Award, East Penn Player of the Year, and two-time team captain. Off the field, Will was a high honor roll student with a 94.8 GPA and will study Physical Therapy with a minor in Athletic Coaching. Position: Tailback Major: Physical Therapy Minor: Athletic Coaching

Richard "Richie" Kostoff (Moosic, PA) Kostoff joins ESU as a freshman tight end and all-time record holder for receptions and yards at Riverside High School. A four-time All-Conference selection, Richie finished his prep career with 136 catches, 1,725 yards, and 26 touchdowns. Honors include All-State, All-Region, and the Mini Max Award. He helped lead his team to a District Championship and Eastern Finals appearance, and academically, he was a National Honor Society member with high honors. Position: Tight End Major: Finance
 
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