Middle Tennessee State University Athletics
LIVE SIGNING DAY UPDATES
2/5/2019 4:43:00 PM | Football
2019 FOOTBALL SIGNEES
9:23 AM (February)
RICHARD KINLEY
DL, 6-2, 209, Fr., Germantown, TN
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Kinley: "Richard is a legacy kid as his dad played for the Blue Raiders in the late '80s. He has an explosive first step and great speed to power, which allowed him to set the school sack record. Richard has the potential to become an elite pass rusher in Conference USA."
High School
• Lettered in football at Lausanne High School
• Earned all-state, all-region and all-district honors in 2018
• Registered 15.5 sacks in three seasons at Lausanne
Personal
• Full name: Richard Sherman Kinley II
• Parents: Richard and Candace Kinley
• Born: 2/1/01
• Major: Business
• Other: father played at Middle Tennessee from 1987-90 … brother Cameron plays at the Naval Academy
8:40 AM (February)
MARVAE MYERS-GLOVER
DB, 6-0, 175, Fr., Orlando, FL
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Myers-Glover: "Marvae has the awareness and instincts that allows him to make plays from sideline to sideline. He possesses the size and athletic ability to play all four defensive back positions."
High School
• Lettered in football and track at Oak Ridge High School
• Earned first team all-Metro honors in 2018 and a two-time defensive MVP
• Had a 99-yard interception return for a TD against Evans in 2018 to set a school record
Personal
• Full name: Marvae Jaylien Myers Glover
• Parents: Mark Myers and Nicole Glover
• Born: 5/12/01
• Major: Business
8:13 AM (February)
ROBERT JONES
OL, 6-5, 320, Jr., Chicago, IL
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Jones: "Robert is a versatile lineman with legitimate size and speed. He is an explosive and tough player who looks to finish every snap. As a junior college transfer, Jones brings some maturity and experience to the unit, which should allow him to compete immediately for a position up front."
Highland CC
• Earned honorable mention all-conference honors in 2018 after starting all 10 games at left guard
• Started last three games his freshman year
• 247Sports ranked Jones as one of the top 25 Junior College offensive tackles in the country
High School
• Lettered in football at Rockford East High School
Personal
• Full name: Robert J. Jones
• Parent: Lateasha Hopson
• Born: 1/28/99
• Major: Sports Management
6:18 AM (February)
QUINDARIUS DUNNIGAN
DL, 6-3, 235, Fr., Chattanooga, TN
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Dunnigan: "Quindarius is a super athlete with great size. He has the physical traits to play in our odd or even fronts. He possesses very long arms which allows him to be a ball disruptor."
High School
• Lettered in football, basketball and track at McCallie School (three-sport athlete last three years)
• Earned all-state honors as a linebacker and was a Best of Preps first team member in 2018
• Was also the Division II-AAA co-defensive player of the year and a team captain in 2018
• Registered 110 tackles, including 10 TFLs, four sacks, 13 hurries and a defensive touchdown his senior year
• Played for Coach Ralph Potter
• Was also an all-region discus thrower in track
Personal
• Full name: Quindarius Maurice Dunnigan
• Parents: Garvin and Delnita Evans
• Born: 8/14/01
• Major: Pre-med/Biology
6:14 AM (February)
ANDREW LEAK
LB, 5-10, 210, Fr., LaGrange, GA
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Leak: "Andrew is a tackling machine. He has a unique ability to slide and work through traffic bouncing in and out of gaps. A crafty blitzer which allows him to spend a lot of time in the backfield."
High School
• Lettered in football at Heard County High School where he led them to a state title in 2018
• Earned all-state honors twice and all-region accolades three times
• Named the WGSS All-Area Defensive Player of the Year in 2018
• Set Heard County tackling record as a junior with 140
Personal
• Full name: Andrew Tremaine Leak
• Guardians: Jovan and Melody Edmondson
• Born: 8/11/00
• Major: Business
6:06 AM (February)
ZAYLIN WOOD
DL, 6-1, 267, Fr., Bowdon, GA
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Wood: "Zaylin has a combination of mass and natural strength while playing with relentless effort and toughness. His ability to stop the run and rush the quarterback gives him the chance to be a three down defensive lineman."
High School
• Lettered in football, basketball and track at Heard County High School
• Rated a three-star recruit by 247Sports and Rivals.com
• Earned all-state and all-region honors in 2018 after tallying 112 tackles, including 36 TFLs
• Also garnered region defensive player of the year honors
Personal
• Full name: Zaylin Reion Wood
• Parents: Phillip and Angela Wood
• Born: 6/11/01
• Major: Human Development
6:05 AM (February)
DJ CHISOLM
WR, 5-7, 151, Fr., Moncks Corner, SC
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Chisolm: "DJ has the ability to create big plays because of his elite speed. He is a fierce competitor that will bring great effort, attitude, and toughness to the wide receiver unit."
High School
• Lettered in football, basketball and track at Berkeley High School
• Rated a three-star recruit by 247Sports
• Earned all-state honors as a senior and was invited to the South Carolina Shrine Bowl
• As a junior he had a school-record 68 receptions for 1,121 yards and 13 touchdowns, while rushing for 380 yards and four scores
• He also added three punt returns for touchdowns his junior year
• In 2018 he was named the South Carolina Lowcountry's High School Male Athlete of the Year by the Post and Courier
• Played for Coach Randy Robinson
• Also excelled in track with his best 100m time of 10.54
Personal
• Full name: Damontrae Jordan Chisolm
• Parents: Willie and Caston Chisolm
• Born: 5/19/00
• Major: Undecided
6:00 AM (February)
J.R. BIVENS
DL, 6-0, 250, Fr., Roswell, GA
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Bivens: "J.R. joins us from one of the top high school programs in the state of Georgia (back-to-back state titles). He plays with a tremendous motor and possesses a high level of football intelligence. His main component is his versatility; he can play defensive end or defensive tackle."
High School
• Lettered in football and lacrosse at Blessed Trinity Catholic High School
• Earned all-Metro and all-region honors as a senior after collecting 39 tackles, 10.5 TFLs and four sacks
• Was all-state, all-region and all-Metro in 2017 after racking up 89 tackles, 21.5 TFLs, 11.5 sacks and four forced fumbles
Personal
• Full name: William Joseph Bivens
• Parents: William and Joyce Bivens
• Born: 3/9/00
• Major: Music Business
6:00 AM (February)
JAYY MCDONALD
RB, 5-9, 186, Jr., Oakland, CA
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on McDonald: "Jayy brings great vision, speed and change of direction which allows him to be an effective runner between the tackles. Is elusive and possesses great hands which will give the Blue Raiders another threat in the passing game."
Laney College
• Led Laney to a 2018 CCCAA State Championship win by rushing for 217 yards on 38 carries to earn player of the game honors
• Rushed for 1,313 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2018 while averaging 24.2 yards per kickoff return
• Earned all-american honors as a kick returner in 2016 (24.3 avg.) and also rushed for 491 yards and five scores
• Played for Coach John Beam
High School
• Lettered in football and track at Lincoln High School
• Earned all-american and all-state honors in track
• Was a member of the Junior Olympic Track Team
• Was all-region in football as a kick returner
• Owns the fastest 100m time in school history (10.48)
Personal
• Full name: John Emill McDonald Jr
• Parent: Laskietd White
• Born: 9/19/96
• Major: Communications
9:33 AM (December)
STEVEN LOSOYA III
OL, 6-4, 290, Fr., Nashville, TN
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Losoya III: "Steven will join our team from John Overton High School in Nashville, TN. Every time we turned on his tape, Steven was outworking his opponent. He is a team first player who is very consistent in his blocking. We want offensive lineman who finish the play with their opponent on the ground and that is exactly how Steven operates in the trenches."
High School
• Was named Lineman of the Year in 2018 as well as Offensive Lineman of the Year
• Earned All-Nashville honors in 2018
• Played for Coach Steve Williams
Personal
• Full name: Esteban Losoya III
• Parents: Steve Losoya and Shannon Judge
• Born: 5/25/01
• Major: Undecided
9:27 AM (December)
JARRIN PIERCE
WR, 5-11, 188, Fr., Los Angeles, CA
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Pierce: "Jarrin is a California junior college product we identified early in the 2019 recruiting cycle. Jarrin competes every snap and finishes tough catches and tough runs. His College of Canyons team went deep into the California state playoffs and we are excited to add his abilities to our roster."
College of the Canyons
• Rated a 3-Star recruit by 247Sports
• Led team in 2018 with 52 receptions for 770 yards and five touchdowns
• Ranked second on the team as a freshman with 49 receptions for 764 yards and five touchdowns
• Named Second Team All-SCFA as a freshman and sophomore
High School
• Earned MVP honors for Bishop Alemany High School his senior year
Personal
• Full name: Jarrin Larenz Pierce
• Parent: Cherise Pierce
• Born: 8/23/98
• Major: Undecided
9:21 AM (December)
DARIUS "Juju" WILLIAMS
DL, 6-3, 225, Fr., Hemingway, SC
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Williams: "Juju as a person and player is all about toughness. Juju runs hard, fast and angry on both sides of the ball. These were the traits we wanted when looking to add to a talented group of edge rushers. He is a student of the game and we know he will be a hard worker throughout his time as a Blue Raider."
High School
• Rated a 3-Star recruit by 247Sports
• Named the fifth best prospect in the state of South Carolina by 247Sports
• Invited to play in the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives Bowl
• Also excelled in basketball
Personal
• Full name: Darius Laterian Williams
• Parents: Jejuan and Natalie Williams
• Born: 8/26/00
• Major: Undecided
9:17 AM (December)
RANDALL JOHNSON
QB, 6-5, 235, Jr., Los Angeles, CA
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Johnson: "Randall is a tall, strong armed quarterback from Reedley College in California. Randall is an accurate signal-caller who gives his wide receivers opportunities to get their hands on every pass. His size, arm strength and ability to extend plays outside the pocket made him a great option for us at the quarterback position."
Reedley College
• Named the Golden Coast Conference Offensive Player of the Year in 2018 and earned first team all-conference honors
• In 2018 he finished second in the state in rushing touchdowns, sixth in passing touchdowns and ninth in passing yards.
• As a sophomore he completed 200 of 319 passes for 2,832 yards and 28 touchdowns (only 8 INT)
• Also led team in 2018 with 797 rushing yards and 14 scores
• Threw for 1,510 yards and 14 touchdowns as a freshman while adding 558 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns
• Threw for five touchdowns and rushed for one in a win over Merced College in 2018
High School
• Attended Manual Arts High School
Personal
• Full name: Randall Johnson
• Parents: Ronald Johnson and Amber Cramer
• Born: 2/22/96
• Major: Undecided
8:07 AM (December)
DORIAN HINTON
OL, 6-4, 300, Fr., Naples, FL
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Hinton: "Dorian is a big, physical football player from Naples, FL. His ability to bend, move and finish caught our eye from the start. Dorian will have an opportunity to help us from the guard and tackle positions on the offensive line. We are excited to add such a physical lineman to this class."
High School
• A second team all-state selection at Naples High School
• Also garnered first team all-conference honors and was first team all-district
• Helped Naples to three regional championships during his career
Personal
• Full name: Dorian Zion Hinton
• Parents: Theodore Hinton and Zoralle Walker
• Born: 5/4/01
• Major: Undecided
8:04 AM (December)
MARLEY COOK
DL, 6-1, 275, Fr., Water Valley, MS
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Cook: "The best way to describe Marley is he is built like a wall of granite with exceptional lean muscle mass. He is a run stuffer deluxe with great balance and body control. Marley plays with great pad level and is a mainstay in the offensive backfield."
High School
• Earned all-state and all-county honors at Forest Hill High School
• Collected 42 tackles and 3.5 sacks in 2018 for Water Valley High School
• Played in the 2018 Barnard Blackwell North/South All-Star Game
• Was the 2018 state powerlifting champion
• Won the 3A state meet at 275 pounds, squatting 675 pounds, bench-pressing 390 pounds and dead-lifting 625 pounds
Personal
• Full name: Broderick Marley Cook
• Parents: Broderick and Audra Cook
• Born: 6/7/01
• Major: Undecided
7:47 AM (December)
RAQUON HARTLEY
LB, 6-1, 190, Fr., Saluda, SC
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Hartley: "Raquon is as strong an athlete on the football field as he is on the basketball court. We loved the idea of taking an athletic outside linebacker who can flip his hips and come down hill with strength. We are thrilled to add Raquon to our linebacker room."
High School
• Rated a 3-Star recruit by 247Sports for Saluda High School
Personal
• Full name: Raquon Denasja Hartley
• Parents: Ryan Hartley and Tarsha Hartley
• Born: 1/3/01
• Major: Undecided
7:33 AM (December)
MARQUEL TINSLEY
WR, 6-2, 200, Fr., Morganfield, KY
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Tinsley: "Marquel is a prospect we have had our eye on for about two years. He's a strong player who can go up and snag contested balls out of the air. He plays with passion and is a hard worker. Culturally, that made him a fit for our locker room and wide receiver room."
High School
• The 6A Player of the Year and first team all-state in 2018
• Led the state of Kentucky in receiving three years
• Had over 200 receptions for more than 4,000 yards and 69 touchdowns in his career
• Played for Coach Matt Brannon
Personal
• Full name: Marquel Deon Tinsley
• Parents: John and Connie Cambron
• Born: 5/23/00
• Major: Undecided
6:55 AM (December)
QUINCY RILEY
DB, 6-0, 170, Fr., Columbia, SC
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Riley: "The moment you turn on Quincy Riley's film you see his speed. Quincy flies around on the field and makes plays not only in the secondary but in the kick return game as well. His ability to start, stop and cut make him an excellent addition to our roster."
High School
• Rated a 3-Star recruit by 247Sports and the No. 16 recruit in South Carolina
• Led A.C. Flora with five interceptions in 2018 to go with 28 tackles. Also had 19 receptions for 303 yards and four touchdowns to go with six special teams scores
Personal
• Full name: Quincy Cory DaShawn Riley
• Parent: Kellee Greene
• Born: 5/26/01
• Major: Undecided
6:21 AM (December)
MARCUS LAFRANCE
DB, 6-2, 170, Fr., North Lauderdale, FL
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Lafrance: "Marcus joins us from Deerfield Beach High School in Florida. One of the first things our staff noticed while evaluating Marcus was his ball skills. Marcus is constantly around the ball and making plays. We are excited to add a player of Marcus' caliber."
High School
• Rated a 3-Star recruit on 247Sports
• Played for Deerfield Beach High School
Personal
• Full name: Marcus Demetrius Lafrance
• Parents: Erlande Jean and Jocelyn Jean-Baptist
• Born: 10/31/99
• Major: Undecided
6:40 AM (December)
DARIUS MCCLENDON
DB, 6-2, 170, Fr., Boynton Beach, FL
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on McClendon: "Darius is a long, athletic defensive back who also played quarterback at Forest Hill High School in Palm Beach, FL. He has range and great speed for a 6'2 athlete. From the secondary position, Darius is a heavy hitter as well. We are excited to add him to this class as an early enrollee in January."
High School
• Earned all-state and all-county honors at Forest Hill High School
• Also named all-academic
• Named Defensive MVP of the Palm Beach County All-Star game
Personal
• Full name: Darius Antayevius McClendon
• Parents: Dwayne McClendon and Amanda Henry
• Born: 10/24/00
• Major: Undecided
6:38 AM (December)
ADAM DERRY
OL, 6-3, 280, Fr., Fort Mitchell, KY
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Derry: "Adam joins us from a highly decorated high school program in Beechwood High School, KY. We love that Adam comes from a championship caliber program and has experienced what it takes to win state titles. Adam rarely came off the field playing on the offensive line, defensive line and on special teams."
High School
• A three-year starter and three-time state champion at Beechwood High School
• Rated a 3-Star recruit by 247Sports
• Selected for the Best of the Bluegrass game and also the Kentucky-Tennessee Border game
• Earned all-state honors as a junior and senior
Personal
• Full name: Adam Lee Derry
• Parents: Chris and Amy Derry
• Born: 6/17/00
• Major: Undecided
6:15 AM (December)
RONINN WRIGHT
LB, 6-1, 200, Fr., St. Marys, GA
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Wright: "Roninn is a player we identified early in the process during summer camps. Roninn comes from one of south Georgia's premier high school football leagues and from Camden County High School. Roninn's ability to play both strong safety and outside linebacker made him a great fit for our linebacker unit."
High School
• Registered 61 tackles his senior year at Camden County High School to go with two interceptions, three forced fumbles and one fumble recovery
• A three-year starter for Camden Co.
• In a game against Tift Co., Wright blocked two punts and caught a 34-yard pass on a fake punt to key the win
Personal
• Full name: Roninn Alec Wright
• Parents: Robert Wright and Shekelia Wright
• Born: 11/3/00
• Major: Undecided
6:14 AM (December)
JALEN JACKSON
DB, 6-2, 170, Fr., Tampa, FL
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Jackson: "Jalen fit the mold of what we want in our defensive backs here at Middle Tennessee - physical, long and athletic. Jalen's length and ball skills made him intriguing throughout the evaluation process. Once we got to know him, we knew he was our kind of person and player. We are excited to add Jalen to this recruiting class."
High School
• Started every game as a junior and senior on both offense and defense for Bloomingdale High School
• Had 40 tackles and two interceptions as a senior while allowing only a 47 percent completion rate against him
• Helped Bloomingdale advance to the 2018 regional playoffs
• Played for Coach Max Warner
Personal
• Full name: Jalen Jackson
• Parent: Veronique Person
• Born: 12/27/00
• Major: Undecided
| NAME | POS | HT | WT | CL | HOMETOWN/PREVIOUS SCHOOL |
| J.R. Bivens | DL | 6-0 | 250 | FR | Roswell, GA/Blessed Trinity Catholic HS |
| D.J. Chisolm | WR | 5-7 | 151 | FR | Moncks Corner, SC/Berkeley HS |
| Marley Cook | DL | 6-1 | 275 | FR | Water Valley, MS/Water Valley HS |
| Adam Derry | OL | 6-3 | 280 | FR | Fort Mitchell, KY/Beechwood HS |
| Quindarius Dunnigan | DL | 6-3 | 235 | FR | Chattanooga, TN/McCallie School |
| Raquon Hartley | LB | 6-1 | 190 | FR | Saluda, SC/Saluda HS |
| Dorian Hinton | OL | 6-4 | 300 | FR | Naples, FL/Naples HS |
| Jalen Jackson | DB | 6-2 | 170 | FR | Tampa, FL/Bloomingdale HS |
| Randall Johnson | QB | 6-5 | 235 | JR | Los Angeles, CA/Reedley College |
| Robert Jones | OL | 6-5 | 320 | JR | Chicago, IL/Highland CC |
| Richard Kinley | DL | 6-2 | 209 | FR | Germantown, TN/Lausanne HS |
| Mark Lafrance | DB | 6-2 | 170 | FR | North Lauderdale, FL/Deerfield Beach HS |
| Andrew Leak | LB | 5-10 | 210 | FR | LaGrange, GA/Heard County HS |
| Steven Losoya III | OL | 6-4 | 290 | FR | Nashville, TN/John Overton HS |
| Darius McClendon | DB | 6-2 | 170 | FR | Boynton Beach, FL/Forest Hill HS |
| Jayy McDonald | RB | 5-9 | 186 | JR | Oakland, CA/Laney College |
| Marvae Myers-Glover | DB | 6-0 | 175 | FR | Orlando, FL/Oak Ridge HS |
| Jarrin Pierce | WR | 5-11 | 188 | JR | Los Angeles, CA/College of the Canyons |
| Quincy Riley | DB | 6-0 | 170 | FR | Columbia, SC/A.C. Flora HS |
| Marquel Tinsley | WR | 6-2 | 200 | FR | Morganfield, KY/Daviess Co. HS |
| Darius "Juju" Williams | DL | 6-3 | 225 | FR | Hemingway, SC/Hemingway HS |
| Zaylin Wood | DL | 6-1 | 267 | FR | Bowdon, GA/Heard County HS |
| Roninn Wright | LB | 6-1 | 200 | FR | St. Marys, GA/Camden Co. HS |
9:23 AM (February)
RICHARD KINLEY
DL, 6-2, 209, Fr., Germantown, TN
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Kinley: "Richard is a legacy kid as his dad played for the Blue Raiders in the late '80s. He has an explosive first step and great speed to power, which allowed him to set the school sack record. Richard has the potential to become an elite pass rusher in Conference USA."
High School
• Lettered in football at Lausanne High School
• Earned all-state, all-region and all-district honors in 2018
• Registered 15.5 sacks in three seasons at Lausanne
Personal
• Full name: Richard Sherman Kinley II
• Parents: Richard and Candace Kinley
• Born: 2/1/01
• Major: Business
• Other: father played at Middle Tennessee from 1987-90 … brother Cameron plays at the Naval Academy
BREAKING: Richard Kinley (@thatguy_richyy) signs with the Blue Raiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) February 6, 2019
◙ Defensive Lineman
◙ 6'2, 209
◙ Lausanne HS
◙ Germantown, TN
◙ Registered 15.5 sacks in 3 seasons
◙ Father (Richard Kinley Sr.) played at MT from 1987-90#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/31A12m4P9q
8:40 AM (February)
MARVAE MYERS-GLOVER
DB, 6-0, 175, Fr., Orlando, FL
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Myers-Glover: "Marvae has the awareness and instincts that allows him to make plays from sideline to sideline. He possesses the size and athletic ability to play all four defensive back positions."
High School
• Lettered in football and track at Oak Ridge High School
• Earned first team all-Metro honors in 2018 and a two-time defensive MVP
• Had a 99-yard interception return for a TD against Evans in 2018 to set a school record
Personal
• Full name: Marvae Jaylien Myers Glover
• Parents: Mark Myers and Nicole Glover
• Born: 5/12/01
• Major: Business
BREAKING: Marvae Myers-Glover (@m21vae) signs with the Blue Raiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) February 6, 2019
◙ Defensive Back
◙ 6'0, 175
◙ Oak Ridge HS
◙ Orlando, FL
◙ Earned first team All-Metro honors in 2018#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/BIM2jA4gK3
8:13 AM (February)
ROBERT JONES
OL, 6-5, 320, Jr., Chicago, IL
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Jones: "Robert is a versatile lineman with legitimate size and speed. He is an explosive and tough player who looks to finish every snap. As a junior college transfer, Jones brings some maturity and experience to the unit, which should allow him to compete immediately for a position up front."
Highland CC
• Earned honorable mention all-conference honors in 2018 after starting all 10 games at left guard
• Started last three games his freshman year
• 247Sports ranked Jones as one of the top 25 Junior College offensive tackles in the country
High School
• Lettered in football at Rockford East High School
Personal
• Full name: Robert J. Jones
• Parent: Lateasha Hopson
• Born: 1/28/99
• Major: Sports Management
BREAKING: Robert Jones (@robertjjones74) signs with the Blue Raiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) February 6, 2019
◙ Offensive Lineman
◙ 6'5, 320
◙ Highland CC
◙ Chicago, IL
◙ Earned all-conference honors in 2018#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/m3hyONhvWy
6:18 AM (February)
QUINDARIUS DUNNIGAN
DL, 6-3, 235, Fr., Chattanooga, TN
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Dunnigan: "Quindarius is a super athlete with great size. He has the physical traits to play in our odd or even fronts. He possesses very long arms which allows him to be a ball disruptor."
High School
• Lettered in football, basketball and track at McCallie School (three-sport athlete last three years)
• Earned all-state honors as a linebacker and was a Best of Preps first team member in 2018
• Was also the Division II-AAA co-defensive player of the year and a team captain in 2018
• Registered 110 tackles, including 10 TFLs, four sacks, 13 hurries and a defensive touchdown his senior year
• Played for Coach Ralph Potter
• Was also an all-region discus thrower in track
Personal
• Full name: Quindarius Maurice Dunnigan
• Parents: Garvin and Delnita Evans
• Born: 8/14/01
• Major: Pre-med/Biology
BREAKING: Quindarius Dunnigan (@QuindariusDunn1) signs with the Blue Raiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) February 6, 2019
◙ Defensive Lineman
◙ 6'3, 235
◙ McCallie School
◙ Chattanooga, TN
◙ Earned All-State honors in 2018#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/qjt9icAjY7
6:14 AM (February)
ANDREW LEAK
LB, 5-10, 210, Fr., LaGrange, GA
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Leak: "Andrew is a tackling machine. He has a unique ability to slide and work through traffic bouncing in and out of gaps. A crafty blitzer which allows him to spend a lot of time in the backfield."
High School
• Lettered in football at Heard County High School where he led them to a state title in 2018
• Earned all-state honors twice and all-region accolades three times
• Named the WGSS All-Area Defensive Player of the Year in 2018
• Set Heard County tackling record as a junior with 140
Personal
• Full name: Andrew Tremaine Leak
• Guardians: Jovan and Melody Edmondson
• Born: 8/11/00
• Major: Business
BREAKING: Andrew Leak (@Drewleak_8) signs with the Blue Raiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) February 6, 2019
◙ Linebacker
◙ 5'10, 210
◙ Heard County HS
◙ LaGrange, GA
◙ Set Heard County tackling record as a junior with 140#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/0FqT51yHxE
6:06 AM (February)
ZAYLIN WOOD
DL, 6-1, 267, Fr., Bowdon, GA
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Wood: "Zaylin has a combination of mass and natural strength while playing with relentless effort and toughness. His ability to stop the run and rush the quarterback gives him the chance to be a three down defensive lineman."
High School
• Lettered in football, basketball and track at Heard County High School
• Rated a three-star recruit by 247Sports and Rivals.com
• Earned all-state and all-region honors in 2018 after tallying 112 tackles, including 36 TFLs
• Also garnered region defensive player of the year honors
Personal
• Full name: Zaylin Reion Wood
• Parents: Phillip and Angela Wood
• Born: 6/11/01
• Major: Human Development
BREAKING: Zaylin Wood (@zaylin_56) signs with the Blue Raiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) February 6, 2019
◙ Defensive Lineman
◙ 6'1, 267
◙ Heard County HS
◙ Bowdon, GA
◙ 3⭐️ rating by @247Sports #L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/i1Ns1lk4qM
6:05 AM (February)
DJ CHISOLM
WR, 5-7, 151, Fr., Moncks Corner, SC
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Chisolm: "DJ has the ability to create big plays because of his elite speed. He is a fierce competitor that will bring great effort, attitude, and toughness to the wide receiver unit."
High School
• Lettered in football, basketball and track at Berkeley High School
• Rated a three-star recruit by 247Sports
• Earned all-state honors as a senior and was invited to the South Carolina Shrine Bowl
• As a junior he had a school-record 68 receptions for 1,121 yards and 13 touchdowns, while rushing for 380 yards and four scores
• He also added three punt returns for touchdowns his junior year
• In 2018 he was named the South Carolina Lowcountry's High School Male Athlete of the Year by the Post and Courier
• Played for Coach Randy Robinson
• Also excelled in track with his best 100m time of 10.54
Personal
• Full name: Damontrae Jordan Chisolm
• Parents: Willie and Caston Chisolm
• Born: 5/19/00
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: DJ Chisolm (@DJ_Chisolm) signs with the Blue Raiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) February 6, 2019
◙ Wide Receiver
◙ 5'7, 151
◙ Berkeley HS
◙ Moncks Corner, SC
◙ 3⭐️ rating by @247Sports #L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/Yz3CRKGQ3u
6:00 AM (February)
J.R. BIVENS
DL, 6-0, 250, Fr., Roswell, GA
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Bivens: "J.R. joins us from one of the top high school programs in the state of Georgia (back-to-back state titles). He plays with a tremendous motor and possesses a high level of football intelligence. His main component is his versatility; he can play defensive end or defensive tackle."
High School
• Lettered in football and lacrosse at Blessed Trinity Catholic High School
• Earned all-Metro and all-region honors as a senior after collecting 39 tackles, 10.5 TFLs and four sacks
• Was all-state, all-region and all-Metro in 2017 after racking up 89 tackles, 21.5 TFLs, 11.5 sacks and four forced fumbles
Personal
• Full name: William Joseph Bivens
• Parents: William and Joyce Bivens
• Born: 3/9/00
• Major: Music Business
BREAKING: JR Bivens signs with the Blue Raiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) February 6, 2019
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
◙ Defensive Lineman
◙ 6'0, 250
◙ Blessed Trinity Catholic HS
◙ Roswell, GA
◙ Earned All-State honors
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/YpzQSCItyN
6:00 AM (February)
JAYY MCDONALD
RB, 5-9, 186, Jr., Oakland, CA
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on McDonald: "Jayy brings great vision, speed and change of direction which allows him to be an effective runner between the tackles. Is elusive and possesses great hands which will give the Blue Raiders another threat in the passing game."
Laney College
• Led Laney to a 2018 CCCAA State Championship win by rushing for 217 yards on 38 carries to earn player of the game honors
• Rushed for 1,313 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2018 while averaging 24.2 yards per kickoff return
• Earned all-american honors as a kick returner in 2016 (24.3 avg.) and also rushed for 491 yards and five scores
• Played for Coach John Beam
High School
• Lettered in football and track at Lincoln High School
• Earned all-american and all-state honors in track
• Was a member of the Junior Olympic Track Team
• Was all-region in football as a kick returner
• Owns the fastest 100m time in school history (10.48)
Personal
• Full name: John Emill McDonald Jr
• Parent: Laskietd White
• Born: 9/19/96
• Major: Communications
BREAKING: Jayy McDonald (@Jayy_mcdonald) signs with the Blue Raiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) February 6, 2019
◙ Running Back
◙ 5'9, 186
◙ Laney College
◙ Oakland, CA
◙ Rushed for 1,313 yards & 10 TDs in 2018 while averaging 24.2 yards per kickoff return #L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/fxeBg96pt5
9:33 AM (December)
STEVEN LOSOYA III
OL, 6-4, 290, Fr., Nashville, TN
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Losoya III: "Steven will join our team from John Overton High School in Nashville, TN. Every time we turned on his tape, Steven was outworking his opponent. He is a team first player who is very consistent in his blocking. We want offensive lineman who finish the play with their opponent on the ground and that is exactly how Steven operates in the trenches."
High School
• Was named Lineman of the Year in 2018 as well as Offensive Lineman of the Year
• Earned All-Nashville honors in 2018
• Played for Coach Steve Williams
Personal
• Full name: Esteban Losoya III
• Parents: Steve Losoya and Shannon Judge
• Born: 5/25/01
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Steven Losoya III (@steven_losoya) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Offensive Lineman
◙ 6'4, 290
◙ John Overton HS
◙ Nashville, TN
◙ Earned All-Nashville honors in 2018#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/kmiTeYvY48
9:27 AM (December)
JARRIN PIERCE
WR, 5-11, 188, Fr., Los Angeles, CA
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Pierce: "Jarrin is a California junior college product we identified early in the 2019 recruiting cycle. Jarrin competes every snap and finishes tough catches and tough runs. His College of Canyons team went deep into the California state playoffs and we are excited to add his abilities to our roster."
College of the Canyons
• Rated a 3-Star recruit by 247Sports
• Led team in 2018 with 52 receptions for 770 yards and five touchdowns
• Ranked second on the team as a freshman with 49 receptions for 764 yards and five touchdowns
• Named Second Team All-SCFA as a freshman and sophomore
High School
• Earned MVP honors for Bishop Alemany High School his senior year
Personal
• Full name: Jarrin Larenz Pierce
• Parent: Cherise Pierce
• Born: 8/23/98
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Jarrin Pierce (@jarrinpierce3) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Wide Receiver
◙ 5'11, 188
◙ College of the Canyons
◙ Los Angeles, CA
◙ 3⭐️ rating by @247Sports #L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/P2lTSysaJc
9:21 AM (December)
DARIUS "Juju" WILLIAMS
DL, 6-3, 225, Fr., Hemingway, SC
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Williams: "Juju as a person and player is all about toughness. Juju runs hard, fast and angry on both sides of the ball. These were the traits we wanted when looking to add to a talented group of edge rushers. He is a student of the game and we know he will be a hard worker throughout his time as a Blue Raider."
High School
• Rated a 3-Star recruit by 247Sports
• Named the fifth best prospect in the state of South Carolina by 247Sports
• Invited to play in the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives Bowl
• Also excelled in basketball
Personal
• Full name: Darius Laterian Williams
• Parents: Jejuan and Natalie Williams
• Born: 8/26/00
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Darius "JuJu" Williams (@ju_machine50) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Defensive End
◙ 6'3, 225
◙ Hemingway HS
◙ Hemingway, SC
◙ 3⭐️ rating by @247Sports #L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/fy6jflp6vv
9:17 AM (December)
RANDALL JOHNSON
QB, 6-5, 235, Jr., Los Angeles, CA
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Johnson: "Randall is a tall, strong armed quarterback from Reedley College in California. Randall is an accurate signal-caller who gives his wide receivers opportunities to get their hands on every pass. His size, arm strength and ability to extend plays outside the pocket made him a great option for us at the quarterback position."
Reedley College
• Named the Golden Coast Conference Offensive Player of the Year in 2018 and earned first team all-conference honors
• In 2018 he finished second in the state in rushing touchdowns, sixth in passing touchdowns and ninth in passing yards.
• As a sophomore he completed 200 of 319 passes for 2,832 yards and 28 touchdowns (only 8 INT)
• Also led team in 2018 with 797 rushing yards and 14 scores
• Threw for 1,510 yards and 14 touchdowns as a freshman while adding 558 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns
• Threw for five touchdowns and rushed for one in a win over Merced College in 2018
High School
• Attended Manual Arts High School
Personal
• Full name: Randall Johnson
• Parents: Ronald Johnson and Amber Cramer
• Born: 2/22/96
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Randall Johnson (@Randallrjohnson) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Quarterback
◙ 6'5, 235
◙ Reedley College
◙ Los Angeles, CA
◙ Named the 2018 Golden Coast Conference Offensive Player of the Year #L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/1f8WIZqIqH
8:07 AM (December)
DORIAN HINTON
OL, 6-4, 300, Fr., Naples, FL
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Hinton: "Dorian is a big, physical football player from Naples, FL. His ability to bend, move and finish caught our eye from the start. Dorian will have an opportunity to help us from the guard and tackle positions on the offensive line. We are excited to add such a physical lineman to this class."
High School
• A second team all-state selection at Naples High School
• Also garnered first team all-conference honors and was first team all-district
• Helped Naples to three regional championships during his career
Personal
• Full name: Dorian Zion Hinton
• Parents: Theodore Hinton and Zoralle Walker
• Born: 5/4/01
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Dorian Hinton (@autter7878) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Offensive Lineman
◙ 6'4, 300
◙ Naples HS
◙ Naples, FL
◙ 2nd team all-state#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/minIC5ougR
MARLEY COOK
DL, 6-1, 275, Fr., Water Valley, MS
Recruiting Coordinator Steve Ellis on Cook: "The best way to describe Marley is he is built like a wall of granite with exceptional lean muscle mass. He is a run stuffer deluxe with great balance and body control. Marley plays with great pad level and is a mainstay in the offensive backfield."
High School
• Earned all-state and all-county honors at Forest Hill High School
• Collected 42 tackles and 3.5 sacks in 2018 for Water Valley High School
• Played in the 2018 Barnard Blackwell North/South All-Star Game
• Was the 2018 state powerlifting champion
• Won the 3A state meet at 275 pounds, squatting 675 pounds, bench-pressing 390 pounds and dead-lifting 625 pounds
Personal
• Full name: Broderick Marley Cook
• Parents: Broderick and Audra Cook
• Born: 6/7/01
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Marley Cook (@marleycooke100) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Defensive Tackle
◙ 6'1, 275
◙ Water Valley HS
◙ Water Valley, MS
◙ Collected 42 tackles & 3.5 sacks in 2018 #L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/3zrowiN128
7:47 AM (December)
RAQUON HARTLEY
LB, 6-1, 190, Fr., Saluda, SC
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Hartley: "Raquon is as strong an athlete on the football field as he is on the basketball court. We loved the idea of taking an athletic outside linebacker who can flip his hips and come down hill with strength. We are thrilled to add Raquon to our linebacker room."
High School
• Rated a 3-Star recruit by 247Sports for Saluda High School
Personal
• Full name: Raquon Denasja Hartley
• Parents: Ryan Hartley and Tarsha Hartley
• Born: 1/3/01
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Raquon Hartley (@chosen6_) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Linebacker
◙ 6'1, 190
◙ Saluda HS
◙ Saluda, SC
◙ 3⭐️ rating by @247Sports #L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/V5Tv3ASvyS
7:33 AM (December)
MARQUEL TINSLEY
WR, 6-2, 200, Fr., Morganfield, KY
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Tinsley: "Marquel is a prospect we have had our eye on for about two years. He's a strong player who can go up and snag contested balls out of the air. He plays with passion and is a hard worker. Culturally, that made him a fit for our locker room and wide receiver room."
High School
• The 6A Player of the Year and first team all-state in 2018
• Led the state of Kentucky in receiving three years
• Had over 200 receptions for more than 4,000 yards and 69 touchdowns in his career
• Played for Coach Matt Brannon
Personal
• Full name: Marquel Deon Tinsley
• Parents: John and Connie Cambron
• Born: 5/23/00
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Marquel Tinsley (@mtinsley150) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Wide Receiver
◙ 6'2, 200
◙ Daviess Co. HS
◙ Morganfield, KY
◙ 3-time all-state leading receiver#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/g2tjumYSQn
QUINCY RILEY
DB, 6-0, 170, Fr., Columbia, SC
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Riley: "The moment you turn on Quincy Riley's film you see his speed. Quincy flies around on the field and makes plays not only in the secondary but in the kick return game as well. His ability to start, stop and cut make him an excellent addition to our roster."
High School
• Rated a 3-Star recruit by 247Sports and the No. 16 recruit in South Carolina
• Led A.C. Flora with five interceptions in 2018 to go with 28 tackles. Also had 19 receptions for 303 yards and four touchdowns to go with six special teams scores
Personal
• Full name: Quincy Cory DaShawn Riley
• Parent: Kellee Greene
• Born: 5/26/01
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Quincy Riley (@QuincyRiley03) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Cornerback
◙ 6'0, 170
◙ A.C. Flora HS
◙ Columbia, SC
◙ 3⭐️ rating by @247Sports #L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/ZtytMaBZES
MARCUS LAFRANCE
DB, 6-2, 170, Fr., North Lauderdale, FL
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Lafrance: "Marcus joins us from Deerfield Beach High School in Florida. One of the first things our staff noticed while evaluating Marcus was his ball skills. Marcus is constantly around the ball and making plays. We are excited to add a player of Marcus' caliber."
High School
• Rated a 3-Star recruit on 247Sports
• Played for Deerfield Beach High School
Personal
• Full name: Marcus Demetrius Lafrance
• Parents: Erlande Jean and Jocelyn Jean-Baptist
• Born: 10/31/99
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Marcus Lafrance (@Marcus_Lafrance) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Cornerback
◙ 6'2, 170
◙ Deerfield Beach HS
◙ North Lauderdale, FL
◙ 3⭐️ rating by @247Sports#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/V6XfBX3pFi
6:40 AM (December)
DARIUS MCCLENDON
DB, 6-2, 170, Fr., Boynton Beach, FL
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on McClendon: "Darius is a long, athletic defensive back who also played quarterback at Forest Hill High School in Palm Beach, FL. He has range and great speed for a 6'2 athlete. From the secondary position, Darius is a heavy hitter as well. We are excited to add him to this class as an early enrollee in January."
High School
• Earned all-state and all-county honors at Forest Hill High School
• Also named all-academic
• Named Defensive MVP of the Palm Beach County All-Star game
Personal
• Full name: Darius Antayevius McClendon
• Parents: Dwayne McClendon and Amanda Henry
• Born: 10/24/00
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Darius McClendon (@dame4lyfe) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Cornerback
◙ 6'2, 170
◙ Forest Hill HS
◙ Boynton Beach, FL
◙ Earned all-state honors #L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/U3qA2P3jSF
6:38 AM (December)
ADAM DERRY
OL, 6-3, 280, Fr., Fort Mitchell, KY
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Derry: "Adam joins us from a highly decorated high school program in Beechwood High School, KY. We love that Adam comes from a championship caliber program and has experienced what it takes to win state titles. Adam rarely came off the field playing on the offensive line, defensive line and on special teams."
High School
• A three-year starter and three-time state champion at Beechwood High School
• Rated a 3-Star recruit by 247Sports
• Selected for the Best of the Bluegrass game and also the Kentucky-Tennessee Border game
• Earned all-state honors as a junior and senior
Personal
• Full name: Adam Lee Derry
• Parents: Chris and Amy Derry
• Born: 6/17/00
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Adam Derry (@adamlderry) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Offensive Lineman
◙ 6'3, 280
◙ Beechwood HS
◙ Fort Mitchell, Kentucky
◙ 3-time state champion#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/r8tR5g4Lb1
6:15 AM (December)
RONINN WRIGHT
LB, 6-1, 200, Fr., St. Marys, GA
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Wright: "Roninn is a player we identified early in the process during summer camps. Roninn comes from one of south Georgia's premier high school football leagues and from Camden County High School. Roninn's ability to play both strong safety and outside linebacker made him a great fit for our linebacker unit."
High School
• Registered 61 tackles his senior year at Camden County High School to go with two interceptions, three forced fumbles and one fumble recovery
• A three-year starter for Camden Co.
• In a game against Tift Co., Wright blocked two punts and caught a 34-yard pass on a fake punt to key the win
Personal
• Full name: Roninn Alec Wright
• Parents: Robert Wright and Shekelia Wright
• Born: 11/3/00
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Ronnin Wright (@rowanical) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Linebacker
◙ 6'1, 200
◙ Camden Co. HS
◙ St. Marys, GA
◙ Collected 61 tackles to go along with three forced fumbles & two INTs in 2018#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/PH08TnlNDJ
JALEN JACKSON
DB, 6-2, 170, Fr., Tampa, FL
Director of Player Personnel Will Redmond on Jackson: "Jalen fit the mold of what we want in our defensive backs here at Middle Tennessee - physical, long and athletic. Jalen's length and ball skills made him intriguing throughout the evaluation process. Once we got to know him, we knew he was our kind of person and player. We are excited to add Jalen to this recruiting class."
High School
• Started every game as a junior and senior on both offense and defense for Bloomingdale High School
• Had 40 tackles and two interceptions as a senior while allowing only a 47 percent completion rate against him
• Helped Bloomingdale advance to the 2018 regional playoffs
• Played for Coach Max Warner
Personal
• Full name: Jalen Jackson
• Parent: Veronique Person
• Born: 12/27/00
• Major: Undecided
BREAKING: Jalen Jackson (@ICYJALEN) signs with the #BlueRaiders ✍️
— Middle Tennessee FB (@MT_FB) December 19, 2018
◙ Cornerback
◙ 6'2, 170
◙ Bloomingdale HS
◙ Tampa, FL
◙ 40 tackles & two INTs as a senior#L19HTITUP pic.twitter.com/fl9jGvqTID
Blue Raider Breakdown Postgame Show - October 8th
Thursday, October 09
MTSU Football vs. Missouri State post-game press conference – 10/8/25
Thursday, October 09
MTSU Football vs. Missouri State post-game press conference – 10/8/25
Wednesday, October 08
Raider Report Game 6 - MTSU vs. Missouri State University
Tuesday, October 07
