Rutgers’ tough, experienced linebacker with a backstory built on resilience
Brian Bender’s profile is that of a physical, assignment-sound linebacker whose value comes from toughness and reliability more than flash. Rutgers’ historical media guide notes he was a 6-foot-2, 210-pound sophomore candidate at “Sam” linebacker, appeared in all 11 games as a freshman, and had already piled up 31 tackles before a torn ACL ended that season early — a reminder that his path includes real adversity. For a team, he reads as a fit if you want a hard-nosed defender who can handle contact, learn quickly, and bring veteran-minded steadiness when healthy.
