Chase Linton is no longer enrolled in Rutgers’ 2025 class.
Chase Linton, a Top247 defensive lineman, decommitted from Rutgers after Ohio State and Georgia expressed interest on a fall visit. The 6-foot-4, 215-pound Linton, the class of 2025’s No. 191 overall prospect and No. 24 defensive lineman, committed in early June following an official visit.
Georgia, on the other hand, continued to pursue the in-state prospect from North Atlanta High. The Buckeyes are also involved.
Linton informed Rutgers of his choice on Saturday and subsequently made an announcement.
“My family and I had amazing experiences at @RFootball and met great coaches and athletes,” he said. “So it’s very difficult to post this but at this time I’m re-opening my recruitment.”
Linton, who visited Georgia after committing to Rutgers, plans to return in October. Meanwhile, Ohio State is also pursuing Linton.
Linton camped with Georgia in late May but was not offered since he departed early to travel to Rutgers for a formal visit. He committed at the end of his tour, but Georgia continued to recruit him and extended an offer when he was on campus in late July.
Chidera Uzo-Diribe, the Bulldogs’ outside linebackers coach, worked with Linton.
“He’s a good coach,” Linton told 247Sports before. “He gave me some fantastic advice to take back with me and focus on myself. He was firm, but not overly firm. It was just extremely helpful.”
Scouting report via Linton’s 247Sports profile: Ascending pass rusher with some of the top multi-sport athletic markers in his position group for the cycle, including a remarkable 44-8.5 triple jump personal best at 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds. Physically, he checks all the boxes, with an explosive lower half that can create plenty of power, a wingspan of nearly 80 inches, and exceptional arm length metrics.
Could easily stick as an edge rusher in the long run, but has the physical ability to spin down and find a home on the defensive line after participating in a collegiate strength and conditioning program. Put up a solid junior season with flashes of domination, but truly attracted our attention following complete performances at the Under Armour Charlotte camp and his 2024 spring game in May. An easy bending with excellent knee and hip flexibility, allowing him to run the arc effortlessly. Plays with a rapid first step supported by high-quality combine testing results.
Doesn’t have the most extensive repertoire of pass-rushing maneuvers, but he plays with great effort and should be able to add more to his game as his body matures. Linton has begun to put the pieces together in preparation for his senior season, and a successful final prep campaign might propel him to new heights. Should be seen as a tremendously athletic pass rusher who will most certainly need some time before being ready to play at the P4 level, but has the potential to grow into a game changer with massive NFL Draft upside.
