Bears Make a Key Addition in Kunaszyk
By Jim McGill, Staff Writer
From Bearinsider.com
With their linebacker ranks suddenly thinned after last season, the Bears made a big move to bolster their defense by adding freshman American River Junior College All-American linebacker Jordan Kusaszyk with his commitment to Cal today.
The 6-3/235 linebacker was one of the most productive JC players in the nation, compiling 118 tackles, three sacks and one forced fumble in his redshirt freshman season.
Kunaszyk had previously visited Cal unofficially twice prior to his official visit with his parent Thursday and Friday last week and saw all he needed to see to convince him Cal was the right place for him.
"Ultimately, Cal was the place I saw myself most likely to succeed," said Kunaszyk. "It's a great program and has very good academics.
"I went with my gut feeling and where my heart is and it's Cal. The program, the coaching staff, the players in the locker room, being close to home -I love California. All were factors for me."
Kunaszyk prepped at Roseville High School near Sacramento and followed the Bears but never dreamed he'd have the opportunity to earn a degree at such a top-notch university.
"Students need a 4.0 plus to go there and it's such a prestigious university so I never even thought that was a possibility for me, being a 3.0 student," said Kunaszyk. "For me to get the opportunity to attend and play for the number one public university in the world is really exciting. I really couldn't be more happy about it."
Kusaszyk noted his football IQ, max effort, ability to play the run and pass game at a high level and his sideline to sideline style of play, sure-tackling and eagerness to learn are the attributes that make him the player he is.
"We knew Jordan had all the physical ability you look for in a player last year," said American River head coach Jon Osterhout. "It was probably a blessing in disguise that he broke his hand on kick coverage in the first game last year in week one of the 2014 season. So we decided to redshirt him to preserve his eligibility.
"He had an outstanding year for us in 2015. He started every game for us and played at an extremely high level for us week in and week out.
"He's mature beyond his years and has all the attributes you look for in a linebacker. He's extremely competitive and will bring great value to Cal's program.
"Jordan has a very high football IQ, which enables him to quickly diagnose plays and play fast on the field. He's got good quicks and good speed and is long, rangy and a sure-tackler.
"I've coached 11 years, including Nebraska and Sacramento State in two stints and he's as good as advertised."
The ability to play under the tutelage of Cal defensive coordinator Art Kaufman was a plus for Kunsaszyk, as well, as Kaufman will also serve as his position coach at Cal.
"To be able to play directly under the DC and have him closely evaluate me firsthand is a great opportunity for me," said Kunaszyk.
The All-American linebacker was hosted by fellow linebackers Hamilton Anoa'i and Devante Downs on his visit and was comfortable from the beginning.
"I've pretty much talked to all the coaches there, especially Coach Kaufman and Coach Dykes," said Kunaszyk. "I talked a lot of the players and they had nothing but great things to say about Cal football. I can definitely see me fitting in really well with those guys."
The Bears beat out finalist Colorado for Kunaszyk's services. The 3 star linebacker also had offers from Southern Miss, Fresno state and other before choosing Cal.