Player Primer: CJ Rutherford
Lindblom’s speedy 2018 WR CJ Rutherford has had serious interest from multiple FBS schools. We talked schools he’s been in touch with, his deserving teammates and him being an exemplary leader on and off the field.
You can find CJ on Twitter @Crj_3.

CJ Rutherford
Lindblom
Chicago, IL
Wt: 170 lbs
Class: 2018
Commitment status: Undecided
LPI: Your team finished at 4-5, but you guys did finish the season winning 3 of your last 4 games showing promise towards next season. Now that your season is over, what are you going to do to take your game to the next level this offseason? Are you going to be playing 7on7?
CR: Now that the season is over I will be working out with my trainer Jared Culver in preparation for the upcoming Army All American Combine in San Antonio, Texas on January 5th-7th. I recently tried out for HeroH and will be playing 7 on 7 come spring.
LPI: You currently do not have any offers, but it’s only a matter of time before offers start coming in. What skill set can you bring to the table for a college football program?
CR: I believe that I am very coachable and I can adapt to systems very quickly. Also I am always looking for new ways to improve my game, whether it be watching film or working out 5 days a week.
LPI: What schools have you been in touch with recently and do you have any planned visits coming up?
CR: Recently I had communication via twitter with Central Michigan, St Francis, NIU, and Augustana. I have also received mail and emails from Purdue, Kansas State, Penn, Colombia, Princeton, Yale, Illinois, Ferris State, Wabash, North Central, Ball State and Eastern Michigan. I currently have no planned visits coming up but I am looking forward to attending a few junior day visits.
LPI: Not only are you excelling on the gridiron, but you are doing very well in the classroom as well with a 3.40 GPA. On and off the field, how do you demonstrate leadership?
CR: True leaders are people who can bring together a group to reach a common goal. Every practice I make sure our entire team goes 100% so that we are prepared on game day to lay it all on the line for each other. Off the field I make sure I respect others and make well thought out decisions in and out of the classroom.
LPI: Tell me about some of your teammates that can play at the next level, but are getting overlooked by college coaches.
CR: Some of my teammates I believe that can play at the next level are receiver Joshua Bufkin, receiver Makhi Cochran, Defensive End Nikolas Dickens, Running Back Ryan Weatherspoon, and Quarterback Bryce Walker.
Joshua Bufkin – Is a hard working player who puts it all on the line for our team each and every week.
Makhi Cochran – Is an electric athlete who can make you miss as well as run through you without any hesitation.
Nikolas Dickens – A team leader with great size to make big plays at the next level.
Ryan Weatherspoon – A true workhorse back who will carry the team in clutch situations.
Bryce Walker – Last but not least, Bryce is an undersized but fiery quarterback with great arm strength and touch. He also can make plays with his feet when the pocket breaks down.