Rutgers University has officially announced its five captains for the upcoming 2026 football season, a move that reflects the leadership and talent within the Scarlet Knights program. The selected players include wide receiver KJ Duff, offensive lineman Kobe Asamoah, linebacker Sean Allison, STUD Jesse Ofurie, and long snapper Michael O’Connor. Each of these athletes brings a unique set of skills and experiences that will be crucial for the team's success.
KJ Duff, who had an impressive performance last season, recorded 60 receptions for 1,082 yards and seven touchdowns. His standout game came against Purdue, where he caught six passes for 241 yards and one touchdown, showcasing his ability to make big plays. Duff led the nation in contested catches with 22, according to ProFootballFocus, and his best overall performance was against Iowa, where he caught seven passes for 92 yards. His contributions on the field earned him a second-team All-Big Ten selection, solidifying his reputation as a top receiver.
Kobe Asamoah, another key figure for the Scarlet Knights, started all 12 games last season at right guard. His performance earned him accolades, including a Second Team All-America selection by ESPN and honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition from coaches and media. This offseason, Asamoah was featured on The Athletic's “Freaks List” and received a preseason First Team All-America nod from Pro Football Network, highlighting his potential as a standout lineman.
Linebacker Sean Allison joins Rutgers after transferring from Drake, where he had a remarkable season. In 12 games with the Bulldogs, Allison recorded 126 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and two sacks. His exceptional play earned him a spot as a finalist for the Buck Buchanan Award, awarded to the best defensive player in the FCS, as well as the title of Pioneer Football League Defensive Player of the Year. His experience and skills will be invaluable to the Scarlet Knights' defense.
Jesse Ofurie, who played in all 12 games last season primarily on special teams, recorded five total tackles. He has been recognized as a player to watch this season, indicating that he could play a significant role in the team's success moving forward. His versatility and commitment to the team will be essential as Rutgers aims to improve its standing in the competitive landscape of college football.
Finally, Michael O’Connor served as the long snapper for all 12 games last season and was honored with a spot on the Academic All-Big Ten list, demonstrating his commitment to both athletics and academics. His reliability in special teams will be crucial for the Scarlet Knights as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.
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