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Rutgers football addresses defensive weaknesses through transfer portal

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 8:04 AM

Last updated Aug 28, 2026

Rutgers football addresses defensive weaknesses through transfer portal

Summary

Rutgers football is looking to improve its defense ahead of the 2026 season after a disappointing 5-7 campaign last year. Coach Greg Schiano hired Travis Johansen as the new defensive coordinator and brought in over a dozen transfers to boost the unit. Players like Malachi Davis and J'Dan Burnett have shown strong statistics from previous seasons and could play pivotal roles. Schiano expressed confidence in the revamped defense following a recent training camp scrimmage, stating that improvement is expected but the degree remains uncertain as the season progresses.

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By the Numbers

•Rutgers finished last season with one of the worst defenses in the country.
•Travis Johansen is the new defensive coordinator after dismissing former co-coordinators.
•The team added transfers including Malachi Davis and J'Dan Burnett to enhance defense.
•Schiano believes the team's defense will improve, but results remain to be seen.
•Returnees like Kaj Sanders and Moses Walker are also expected to contribute.

Latest Updates

8:04 AMYahoo Sports — Did the transfer portal fix Rutgers football's biggest weakness?

What they're saying

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Rutgers football's biggest weakness was on full display last season. It spent eight months trying to fix it. Will the Scarlet Knights be successful?
— Yahoo Sports

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