Raiqwon O'Neal commits to Rutgers, breaks down decision

Rutgers landed a big commitment today from Conway (S.C.) three-star offensive tackle Raiqwon O’Neal, who held an impressive list of offers. O’Neal spoke with Scarlet Nation about his commitment.

“Rutgers has my major which is graphic design. I like the environment they have both on and off of the campus. Also, I committed because of the relationship between the coaches and their players. I also like how they build their players for life after football.”

A visit to campus at the end of July played a major part in O'Neal's decision.

“The graphic design building was wonderful back when I visited. The graphic design department is one building specifically just about graphic design and nothing else,” O’Neal said. “You have your own personal space to work in as well. Also, the campus is beautiful and the people were wonderful. I sat down one on one with everyone on the visit and love what they were saying. They are not different from when I talked on the phone with them. I trust Coach [Chris] Ash in the rebuilding process.”

Rutgers can credit offensive line coach AJ Blazek with making a strong impression on O’Neal during his recruitment.

“Coach Blazek is my main recruiter at Rutgers. He was a tremendous guy from the minute we met,” O’Neal said. “He is just straight up with you.”

O’Neal also mentioned that his commitment is final and his recruitment will not be revisited in any way.

“Once I'm in, I'm in,” O’Neal said. “I'm either visiting again on my bye week, the second week of September or I might wait until after the season for my official visit.”

That will lead right into his time as a college freshman in January of 2018.

“I absolutely plan on enrolling early,” O’Neal said. “I hope to win states and make all A's my senior year.”