Two Rutgers seniors who are graduating from the program this year have accepted invitations to play in some senior talent showcases now that their regular college eligibility is over. Both wide receiver DT Sheffield and safety Jett Elad have accepted invitations to the Hula Bowl. However, since Sheffield was also invited to play in the American Bowl, he will play in that one instead.
Both players transferred to Rutgers last offseason. Elad came to Rutgers after playing at UNLV. During his one season on the
Banks, Elad totaled 77 tackles, two interceptions, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. His 77 tackles were the most on the team last season. He was an all-Big Ten honorable mention by the coaches and was named a finalist for the Cornish award. He will play in the Hula Bowl. The Hula Bowl used to be played in Hawaii but has been moved to Florida in recent years. This game will be in Orlando, Florida, on January 11th. 2026, with the kickoff being at 12:00 pm on CBS.
Sheffield came to Rutgers as the final stop on his tour of the college football world. He spent time at the JUCO level, at Washington State, and at North Texas before he made the jump to Rutgers. During his lone season with the Knights, Sheffield hauled in 44 catches for 577 yards and four touchdowns. He was a key part of one of the best wide receiver cores in the Big Ten. He will be playing in the American Bowl, a bowl that started this year, which has the purpose of supporting active military and veteran communities through the Military Thriving Initiative. The initiative helps veterans gain valuable experience and connections to grow in their post-military careers. This game will take place at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida, on January 22nd, 2026. The kickoff will be at 8 pm, with a live broadcast available on the NFL Network.
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