Some big fellas on the countdown today.
There are two players on the countdown again today. We will start with the sophomore Mason Vicari and move to the freshman Jaxon Ott.
#51 – Mason Vicari
OL
6’4”, 310
Sophomore
Previous school: UNLV
Sacramento, California
Projection: Offensive Line Rotation
Vicari comes to Purdue with new head coach Barry Odom from UNLV. Vicari appeared in 9 games for UNLV on both the offensive line and special teams. He was a three star prospect out of high school where he played on both sides of the ball. He played on the defensive line as well. Vicari should have a nice opportunity here at Purdue in his second year in college. Odom wasn’t going to bring everyone over with him so it’s my assumption that the guys that he did bring are ones he believes in and ones he believe can make a difference. Opportunity will abound on the offensive line and I expect Vicari to be given every opportunity to earn a bunch of minutes and at 6’4” and 310 pounds he’s got the body for it.
#51 – Jaxon Ott
LB/TE
6’4”, 247
Sophomore
Marion, Indiana (Mississinewa High School)
Projection: Redshirt season
Ott was an all-state selection during his senior season. Over his HS career he was a three time all-conference selection. He was also a three year team captain which should tell us all something about his character. He comes to Purdue as a Preferred Walk-On. Given that he came as a preferred walk-on with no other discernable offers it seems likely that he won’t get many snaps this season. The exception could be if he somehow distinguishes himself on special teams. There’s always that chance. Regardless, Ott seems like a good locker room guy and one who should help the cohesion of the team and you need a certain number of those guys in the locker room.