Gwaltney impressive at NIKE
Long Island (N.Y.) North Babylon running back Jason Gwaltney made a surprise appearance at the NIKE Camp in State College, Pa. for one reason and one reason only.
"I wanted to show everyone I can compete with the best," said the 6-foot-2, 234-pounder. "I know that my area doesn't get the respect that other areas do for football, so I wanted to prove that I can put up good numbers off the field and play with the best as well as on the field."
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Gwaltney didn't disappoint. In addition to being one of the most physically impressive players at the camp, he ran a 4.62-second 40-yard dash, had a 4.28-second shuttle, jumped 35 inches and did 25 bench reps. He was also impressive in drills.
"I just wanted to show that I was the real thing," he said. "Everyone wants to be considered amongst the best in the country and I felt I needed to show what I can do in person."
Gwaltney, who committed to West Virginia a few months back, is getting quite a bit of attention these days from colleges.
"Ohio State has come in pretty hard along with Pitt, Syracuse and Nebraska," he said. "I'm solid to West Virginia, but I might take an official visit or two just to make sure. I like everything about West Virginia though and am happy with my choice."
Gwaltney said he likes the spread offense that the Mountaineers run.
"I might be a big back, but I think I have quick feet and I like the idea of getting one-on-one with the safeties," he said. "I'd prefer to run over defenders, but I can go around them as well. West Virginia's offense is great for any running back."
As a junior, Gwaltney rushed for 2,601 yards and an amazing 45 touchdowns.