Jersey LB getting big-time interest

Things haven't changed much at Bergen Catholic in Oradell, N.J. as the North Jersey catholic school continues to roll out D-I football players. This upcoming recruiting year, linebacker Brian Cushing will be one of the state's top recruits.

The 6-foot-3, 225-pound inside 'backer is an excellent athlete who can run. Some college coaches are saying he is one of the best linebacker recruits in the East. Cushing has been timed in the 40-yard dash at 4.45 seconds and has a 35-inch vertical jump.

Last season as an inside linebacker he had 120 tackles, 10 sacks, 18 tackles for a loss and seven interceptions. What really makes him special is the fact that he also played wide receiver on offense because of his terrific speed and athletic ability. He caught 13 passes for 456 yards and seven touchdowns.

For his accomplishments Brian was awarded All-county, All-North Jersey and All-State honors.

“I know it’s early, but my favorites so far are Michigan, Rutgers, Stanford, Ohio State, Virginia Tech and Miami," said Cushing. "Those teams stand out a bit right now."

What makes him so good?

"My intensity, nose for the ball and my speed is a very big plus."