Former Nebraska offensive tackle Xander Ruggeroli is set to make waves in the college football world as he transfers to play for Arizona State in 2025. After a season where he appeared in just one game as a true freshman for the Cornhuskers, Ruggeroli still boasts an impressive four years of eligibility remaining. This move marks an exciting new chapter in his football journey.
High School Success and Recruitment
Ruggeroli’s journey began at Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he established himself as a formidable player. He was rated as a three-star prospect in the 2024 recruiting class, ranking as the No. 1,261 overall player and the No. 87 offensive tackle according to the On3 Industry Ranking. His high school career was nothing short of stellar; he helped lead his team to an undefeated season and a state championship during his senior year. In total, Ruggeroli claimed three state titles, showcasing his talent and determination on the field.
Transfer Portal Dynamics
As Ruggeroli transitions to Arizona State, he enters the NCAA transfer portal landscape as the No. 891 overall player and the No. 56 offensive tackle in On3’s Transfer Portal Player Rankings. This ranking reflects the competitive nature of college football and the strategic moves players make to find the best fit for their skills and aspirations.
Arizona State’s Growing Roster
Ruggeroli’s addition is significant for Arizona State, marking him as the ninth player to join the Sun Devils through the transfer portal. Notably, he is the third player added on a single day, indicating the team’s active recruitment strategy. The Sun Devils are coming off a remarkable season, having clinched the Big 12 Championship and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff, where they faced a tough quarterfinal match against Texas. With Ruggeroli on board, Arizona State aims to bolster its offensive line and continue its upward trajectory.
My’Keil Gardner Joins Arizona State
In another exciting development for Arizona State, former Oregon defensive lineman My’Keil Gardner has also signed with the team out of the NCAA transfer portal. Gardner’s entry into the portal occurred just a few days ago, and he is looking to make an impact after a limited role at Oregon. Throughout his two seasons with the Ducks, Gardner played sparingly, not appearing in any games during the 2024 season. However, he did see action in three games during the 2023 season, where he recorded one tackle before taking a redshirt.
Recruitment Background of Gardner
Before his time at Oregon, Gardner was a highly regarded recruit, ranked as a three-star prospect and the No. 442 overall player in the 2023 recruiting class. He was also recognized as the No. 48 defensive lineman and the No. 10 overall player from Arizona, hailing from Peoria (AZ) Liberty. His pedigree suggests that he has the potential to contribute significantly to the Sun Devils’ defense.
Keeping Up with the Transfer Portal
As college football continues to evolve, the transfer portal has become a vital tool for players seeking new opportunities. Fans and analysts alike are eager to track the latest movements, and resources like On3’s Transfer Portal wire provide up-to-date information on players on the move. For those wanting to stay informed, the On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account serve as excellent platforms to catch all the latest updates.
Looking Ahead
With both Ruggeroli and Gardner joining Arizona State, the Sun Devils are positioning themselves for a promising future. The infusion of new talent through the transfer portal not only enhances the team’s depth but also brings fresh energy and competition to the roster. As these players settle into their new environment, fans can anticipate exciting developments on the field.
In college football, every transfer can reshape a team’s dynamics, and the additions of Ruggeroli and Gardner are no exception. Their stories reflect the ever-changing landscape of the sport, where players are constantly seeking the best opportunities to showcase their skills and contribute to their teams’ successes. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Arizona State to see how these new recruits will impact the Sun Devils’ quest for glory.
