Top NY Linebacker Officially Visits Panthers

Elias Reynolds,a (6’2″ 227lb) linebacker from Brooklyn, New York (Poly Prep) is currently on his official visit tonight at Pitt. Reynolds, decommitted from Rutgers November 30th. Since then Pat Narduzzi and staff have obtained a official commitment from Elias’ Poly Prep teammate OT Justin Morgan(6’7″ 335lb).

I had an opportunity to speak with Elias prior to him leaving for his official visit.

MJ-“To familiarize readers about your history, when did you start playing football?”
ER-“Started playing flag football in 7th grade and tackle officially in 8th.”

MJ-“You’re really athletic and effective playing in space. Have you played any positions defensively besides linebacker?”
ER-“Well, before I bulked up I played free safety, so I believe that the major requirement of being agile and quick at safety helped me along the way as I became a linebacker.”

MJ-“Great answer, I was wondering if you started in the secondary. What position is Pitt projecting you to? Star or Money linebacker?”
ER-“Well they think I can play any of the three spots, but they said wherever I make the most plays is where I will fit in to their defense.”

MJ-“That says a lot about your versatility. Is there a college or NFL player you model your game after?”
ER-“Hands down Kam Chancellor. He’s a safety who’s quick and agile, but also has the mentality of a linebacker.”

MJ-“Giants or Jets?”
ER-“Don’t have a favorite team, but if I had to choose between the two, I’d pick the G men.”

MJ-“What gets you more fired up a sack, interception or a bone crunching hit?”
ER-“1.Bone crunching hit 2.Interception 3.Sack”

MJ-“Who has your primary recruiter been with Pitt?”
ER-“Coach (Tim)Salem”

MJ-“Your High School teammate Justin Morgan had a great time on his official visit. What are you most looking forward to seeing while you’re in Pittsburgh?”
ER-“Academics and a chance to see what the community is like. Already saw the football aspect of it, but I’m sure there’s more.”

MJ-“While you’re on campus a number of players already committed to Pitt will be on their official visit. How important is building bonds with future teammates when considering a school?”
ER-“I think building bonds with your teammates is extremely important, but those bonds aren’t made before you arrive to your school. They’re made during the season when you’re going to war and in the off season when you’re pushing each other to the limit.”
MJ-“Great Answer!”

MJ-“Do you have a potential major you’re considering?”
ER-“As of right now I’m leaning towards business, but I’m not quite sure yet. I think when I’m exposed to all the different majors and fields I’ll get a better feel for what I want to do.”

MJ-“Do you come from an athletic family?”
ER-“I’d like to think so yes”

MJ-“You are down to three schools Rutgers, Illinois and Pitt. What is your timeline for making your decision?”
ER-“Taking all my visits then I’m hoping to make a decision shortly before signing day, but if not February 3rd it is.”

MJ-“Linebacker coach Rob Harley is a young, enthusiastic coach. Have you had much interaction with him to this point?”
ER-“Yeah, he came for a visit before the dead period and we’ve spoken on the phone before. He’s a cool and down to earth guy, but he’s about his business as well.”

MJ-“Head Coach Pat Narduzzi has produced some top level defenses and produced first round draft picks. How much of a factor is that in considering Pitt as a possibility for you?”
ER-“Definitely a factor. I know he made a major contribution to MSU and practically made that defense the way it is now, so him coming to Pitt is a plus one.”

MJ-“Lastly, what three words would you use to describe Elias Reynolds?”
ER-“Hustle, Hard Hitter and Determined”

Reynolds is rated a 3 star prospect by 247, Rivals and Scout. He shows an ability to defend in space walked out on a much smaller slot receiver. As a pass rusher he shows good burst off the line of scrimmage, an inward body lean and a violent strike when he reaches the passer. He also shows an awareness and anticipation when he won’t reach the passer to elevate disrupting a pass. While making an open field tackle Reynolds shows great form, decelerating, sinking his hips and striking the ball carrier with his head up.

After watching his film I get the impression based on his size and skill set he’d project to MLB and should be a more than adequate starter down the road. I like his mentality and enthusiasm for the game of football. I’ll update with progress on Elias as we near signing day.