Isaiah Deloatch brings rare linebacker speed and hybrid versatility to Rutgers
Deloatch is an intriguing Rutgers freshman linebacker because he combines downhill tackling ability with uncommon track speed, plus enough versatility to contribute on special teams and even punting. In high school, he produced 53 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, an interception and a fumble recovery as a junior, while ESPN and 247Sports both viewed him as a top-15 North Carolina recruit in the 2025 class. The big selling point is range: he can close space fast, play with physicality, and raise the defense’s athletic ceiling.
