RB Monangai ready for first official

West Orange (N.J.) Seton Hall Prep running back Kevin Monangai has seen interest from colleges increase in recent weeks and now he is preparing to take his first official visit of the recruiting process.

The 5-foot-10, 195-pound running back from the Garden State had a huge senior season that greatly improved his stock with colleges.

Though Seton Hall Prep suffered a disappointing loss to Bergen Catholic last week in the semifinals of the playoffs, Monangai showcased his skills over the course of the entire season. He suffered a minor injury in the second quarter of the game against Bergen Catholic. With the score already heavily in favor of Bergen Catholic, Monangai's coach elected to keep him out of the game to play it safe and not risk further injury.

Central Michigan and Monmouth are the two schools that have offered scholarships to Monangai.

"I'm taking an official visit to Central Michigan next weekend," he said.

Monangai said it is highly unlikely that he would verbally commit while on his trip to CMU, as there are several other schools that are showing interest that he wants to hear more from.

"Boston College and Rutgers have been talking to me," he explained. "I got a call from coach (Greg) Schiano a week or two ago. They've been showing a little interest. I've talked to Maryland a little bit and Pitt, too."

Monangai describes himself as "pretty much open" and said he does not have any favorites.

For the season he rushed for 2,266 yards and 35 touchdowns, averaging 11.9 yards per carry.