Rutgers noticed Gavin Sidwar’s skills during spring practices, prompting them to extend an offer and place him at the top of their list for quarterbacks. Sidwar recently committed to Rutgers, becoming the first recruit for their 2026 class.
“I’m ready to come in and give it my all,” Sidwar stated. “They have a strong team culture, and everyone works incredibly hard. I aim to be a supportive teammate and help secure a Big Ten Championship. With their coaching staff, I believe they can help me reach my full potential both on and off the field.”
Sidwar, from Wyndmoor (Pa.) La Salle, follows in the footsteps of Rutgers running back Sam Brown. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 185 pounds, Sidwar excels at maneuvering in the pocket, extending plays, and pushing the ball downfield. He has already started for two years at La Salle, achieving impressive stats in his junior season: completing 186 of 285 passes for 2,439 yards and 29 touchdowns.
Sidwar developed a strong bond with head coach Greg Schiano and offensive coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca through multiple campus visits and interactions. He praised Schiano’s coaching style and Ciarrocca’s direct approach in evaluating his potential fit as a quarterback.
“After visiting with my parents, I knew Rutgers was the right choice,” Sidwar explained. “It ticks all the boxes for me: it’s a Big Ten school with excellent academics, offers a chance to compete early, and is close to home. They emphasize a balanced offense that suits my style.”
While Sidwar received offers from several schools, including Duke, Syracuse, and Pittsburgh, he ultimately narrowed his choices down to Rutgers and Syracuse following June visits. He holds a respectable ranking among recruits in Pennsylvania and nationwide.
Rutgers secured Sidwar’s commitment early in the recruiting cycle, emphasizing his potential impact on the team. As the first recruit for their 2026 class, Sidwar’s proximity to campus ensures his active involvement in team activities and recruiting events.
Scouting expert Andrew Ivins praised Sidwar’s skills as an athletic pocket passer with a knack for precise throws and field awareness, making him a valuable addition to Rutgers’ roster.
