A Purdue legacy.
#37 – Joey Sumlin
Linebacker
6’1”, 225
Sophomore (redshirt)
Tuscon, Arizona
Projection: Deep Reserve Linebacker
Joey Sumlin comes to Purdue the son of former Purdue player and coach Kevin Sumlin. Joey was a walk-on to Purdue who has yet to find his way onto the field but will be entering his third year in the program. If you take a look at his weigh-ins over the years he’s gone from 240 in his freshman year to 222 as a sophomore to 225 this season. It’s clear he’s undergone a transformation of his body. He’ll need to continue that as he looks to find his way onto the field this season.
Sumlin has appeared in one game over his Boilermaker career and that was last season against Indiana State. He recorded one tackle in that. No other appearances last season. He will need to really show something here soon as Purdue looks to revamp its entire defense. Can Sumlin find his way onto the field in a prominent role? It seems unlikely, but he’s got the chance to contribute on special teams if given the chance.