Rutgers Secures Experienced Transfer QB: Implications for AJ Surace

Rutgers University is poised for a competitive offseason at the quarterback position following the transfer of Dylan Lonergan from Boston College. The 6-foot-2, 211-pound player, originally from Georgia, began his collegiate journey at Alabama and has two years of eligibility remaining.

Dylan Lonergan Joins Rutgers

Lonergan is a former four-star recruit and is set to compete with redshirt sophomore AJ Surace for the starting quarterback role. Surace, the son of Princeton coach Bob Surace, returns to Rutgers after limited playtime in his first two years, where he logged just 34 snaps. His role is crucial as he was expected to be the successor to former quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis, who has exhausted his eligibility.

Coaching Insights from Greg Schiano

Head coach Greg Schiano has emphasized the need for competition in the quarterback position, stating that Surace must earn his spot. Schiano expressed his belief in Surace’s abilities, saying, “I love AJ, I think he is a very talented, committed player.” He also hinted at the possibility of additional quarterback recruits through the transfer portal.

Lonergan’s Background and Performance

• Alabama Career: Lonergan was the 12th-best quarterback prospect in the 2023 class, committing to Alabama but participating in limited plays.
• Boston College Stats: In his season with the Eagles, he threw for 2,025 yards, 12 touchdowns, and five interceptions.
• Inconsistency: Despite a few strong games early in the season, he struggled in late-season matchups, not throwing a touchdown in four consecutive games.

His offensive coordinator at Rutgers, Kirk Ciarrocca, played a pivotal role in developing Kaliakmanis at Minnesota and will aim to unlock Lonergan’s potential. Ciarrocca’s familiarity with the quarterback position may provide an advantage for both Lonergan and Surace.

Future Implications for AJ Surace and Rutgers

The quarterback competition between Lonergan and Surace is critical for the future of Rutgers football. Regardless of who takes the starting role, the Scarlet Knights will benefit from having a deep cadre of talented quarterbacks.

The upcoming offseason will undoubtedly be an exciting period for Rutgers, with fans eager to see how this competition unfolds. As both athletes strive to secure their place, the outcome will have significant ramifications for the team’s performance in the coming seasons.