The tradition of brothers playing at Colorado State extends well into the program's history, but former head coach Sonny Lubick's tenure brought a number of memorable siblings: Matt and Kevin McDougal (yes and even Sean), Russell and Aaron Sprague, Eric and Nathan Pauley, Chris and Michael Kawulok, Morgan and Eric Pears, the twins Dion and Damon Morton. This is not even close to a complete list, but the tradition has not disappeared now that Lubick is no longer the head coach. Highlighting this past signing day class to add to the list was receiver Jay James whose brother CJ played defensive end as a true freshman for the Rams, and athlete Bobby Borky whose brother TJ is giving it another go at quarterback this spring after playing receiver last season. Both TJ and Bobby played quarterback at Lake Highland Prep high school outside of Orlando, Florida. Like TJ, Bobby will probably end up playing receiver at CSU.
While CSU has had success in recruiting siblings, often the most talented younger ones have chosen not to sign with CSU. Moses Moreno’s younger brother Zeke signed with USC, and ended up playing for the same San Diego Chargers where Moses finished his career. This past year, offensive lineman Tyler McDermott’s brother Shane signed with Miami after getting his first offer from Colorado State. Also, cornerback Immanuel Mitchell’s brother Joshua, picked Nebraska after taking a mid-season official visit to Fort Collins.
Still, one other set of brothers is joining the CSU family this fall. For those of you who follow the roster closely will notice the addition of safety Austin Gilmore, who is the older brother of 2010 signee Crockett Gilmore of Bushland, Texas. Austin has transferred to CSU after spending a redshirt year at West Texas A&M.
Brothers will once again play a prominent roll during the upcoming recruiting season. Defensive lineman Nuku Latu’s brother, Mo, is one of the top recruits in the state of Arizona this year. Mo is a 310-pound nose tackle who has offers from CSU and Arizona State so far. Mo was Honorable Mention 5A All-State as a junior.
While Chris and Michael Kawulok both signed with the Rams, younger brother Matt signed with San Diego State where he recently completed his career as a tight end. Yet, there is one more Kawulok brother to be recruited. Joe Kawulok is a monster 6’6” tight end/defensive end prospect at Monarch High School. Joe is a gem of a prospect, and Steve Fairchild and staff will have their work cut out for them. Joe has offers from CSU, New Mexico, San Diego State, Utah, and may add Arizona to the list shortly.
Another CSU prospect has a brother who has signed with the Rams, but is not even enrolled yet. Beau Reilly a 6’4” quarterback/athlete from Valley Center, Calif. will get a look from Fairchild and staff this year, but like his older brother Drew, don’t expect him on campus anytime soon if he does sign. Drew is a safety who signed with CSU in 2007, but delayed enrollment to go on a Mormon mission. He is still set to join the team for spring practice in 2011.
Some recent offers:
Rodrick Ryles, DB, Orlando, FL – Highlights
Dustin Walton, QB, Raton, NM – Highlights
Isaac Luatua, OG/DT, La Mirada, CA - Highlights
Bryan Peters, OT, La Mirada, CA - Highlights
If you have a tip to share about prospective CSU recruits, feel free to shoot me an email at: ramnationrecruiting@yahoo.com.