Fran Brown said earlier in the spring portal, “If you can play linebacker and you’re out there, I ain’t hard to find.” Today, that proved to be true. Brown has found an absolute stud from South Dakota in All-American Gary Bryant. The Baltimore, Maryland native had over 100 tackles last season along with two interceptions. Even though Bryant played at a lower level, he’s got really good size at 6’1 230 and seems to be very quick and agile. He’s versatile, graded very highly as both a run stopper and in coverage. He’s also a player who shows up in big moments. Bryant set the USD FCS Playoff single-game tackle record last season. The Orange have a plethora of big games next year so a player who doesn’t shy away from the spotlight is key.
The Orange have had solid linebackers for the last few years. Mikel Jones, Justin Barron and Marlowe Wax have set the bar very high, but Bryant seems to have what it takes to fill the void in the SU defense. Now with Bryant next to Anwar Sparrow and Derek McDonald, the ‘Cuse linebacking core seems like it could be a strength for the ‘Cuse defense.
Bryant picked SU after visiting USC, Cal, and West Virginia. That’s all you need to see to know that this is a stud. Those are three programs that know how to develop linebackers, especially Cal, with former NFL Head Coach and linebacker Ron Rivera as the teams new General Manager. Fran Brown continues to excel on the recruiting trail and in the transfer portal. When Brown has gone out and stated his needs, he’s gone out and got it done. The ‘Cuse have a QB on the way, signed an offensive lineman, and doesn’t seem to be close to finished.
