In today's game, it's all about versatility. The more you can do, the longer you get to stick around is the mantra for many professional teams.
So when you're a small college prospect coming from the lower levels of college football, it's imperative to have multiple tools and also multiple talents in your bag.
Cortland State, the reigning Division III national champion, has a prospect who definitely fits that criteria and the mold of what the next level is looking for. Wide receiver Jaden AlfanoStJohn made the move to wideout this season after posting over 3,100 yards and 43 touchdowns as a running back. It takes some courage and confidence to make a full-on position switch during the last season of your collegiate career, but that's what AlfanoStJohn is doing.
The 6-foot, 200-pound prospect has already made a name for himself as a receiver, hauling in seven receptions for 182 yards and two scores in his breakout game vs. Lycoming. But what's also new, and equally as impressive, is his exploits this year as a kickoff returner. AlfanoStJohn had his first real experience in that realm this season, and two weeks ago against Susquehanna, he raced 100 yards for a touchdown on a return.
Having a unique set of skills is one thing, but being able to showcase everything you have in your final season is another; and what a time to show the entire repertoire of what you bring to the table as a player.
WR/RB Jaden AlfanoStJohn
- Height: 5-foot-10
- Weight: 200 pounds
- College: SUNY Cortland
- Next game: Morrisville (Oct. 5)
AlfanoStJohn was a terrific running back for the Red Dragons the past three seasons, showing the skill set necessary to be a solid change-of-pace back as a pro. Obviously he showed comfort in catching the football to make this move to wideout this season seamless. What has stood out so far is his big contributions as a kickoff returner. AlfanoStJohn already has a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown this season, in addition to a 100-yard game as a receiver. He has the potential to be a tremendous versatile asset for a team.
OL Alec Rasmussen
- Height: 6-foot-6
- Weight: 316 pounds
- College: St. Thomas (MN)
- Next game: Stetson (Oct. 5)
I watched his game against Northern Iowa, and the first two snaps were two devastating pancake blocks. Rasmussen combines excellent size with great functional strength. Once he latches on, he is able to steer defenders out of the way and also stymie pass rushers. When he's tasked with executing a down block, he's moving defenders across multiple gaps in the process. You can understand why he's got a lot of interest from pro scouts.
OL Zach Luworo
- Height: 6-foot-4
- Weight: 330 pounds
- College: George Fox
- Next game: Lewis & Clark (Oct. 5)
A naturally strong offensive lineman, Luworo does a good job of firing off the football. He's playing left tackle at George Fox, but would more than likely see a transition to guard in his future. Initially he's able to keep his hands inside, which helps him maintain both control and leverage of the defender. Getting him into a postseason all-star game will be good to see how far he has to go in terms of development and to see him compete consistently against upper-level competition.
OL Gareth Warren
- Height: 6-foot-5
- Weight: 338 pounds
- College: Lindenwood
- Next game: Tennessee State (Oct. 5)
Warren is on the 2025 Reese's Senior Bowl Watch List and has put together some nice film this season. He shows an impressive display of technique, recognition and patience. All three combine on each rep, giving him the best possible chance of winning. I think he does a really good job of "playing the piano," which means he is able to effectively pass defenders off to the next offensive lineman and pick up the incoming twist or stunt well. For such a taller lineman, he does a solid job of maintaining good knee bend and leverage. His tape against Kansas this year was strong.
