Jude Cascone’s journey to college football is a tale of grit and determination. With early offers from powerhouses like Georgia, Ohio State, and Alabama, the Walton High School tight end, standing nearly 6-foot-3 and weighing 225 pounds, has proven to be more than just a three-star recruit. His versatility on the field is invaluable, transitioning seamlessly from a hand-in-the-dirt tight end to a dynamic H-back, paving the way for Walton’s impressive rushing stats.
Coach Daniel Brunner describes Cascone as a “throwback kid,” highlighting his ability to secure leverage at the second level, contributing to four 1,000-yard rushing seasons for the Raiders. This versatility caught the eyes of top programs like the Bulldogs, Buckeyes, and Crimson Tide.
Jude’s father, Mike Cascone, summed it up well: “If I have a reliable guy there, I’m not over-recruiting that position. I’m done. I got my guy.”
Now, Jude has embarked on his journey with the Crimson Tide, rooming with four-star recruits Jett Thomalla and Mack Sutter at Bryant Hall. Despite being a three-star, Jude is determined to prove his worth and earn his scholarship. As Coach Brunner puts it, Jude is driven to show he can compete with the best.
Navigating the recruiting landscape wasn’t straightforward for Jude. While he had numerous offers across various leagues, Alabama and Ohio State each had limited scholarship spots for tight ends.
Alabama’s spot went to Mack Sutter, a top-ranked prospect. Yet, Jude’s approach remained steadfast-control what you can control.
His focus on grades, performance, and work ethic became his guiding principles.
During his time at Walton, Jude recorded 29 catches for 611 yards and eight touchdowns, showcasing his versatility and leadership as a three-time team captain. Brunner recalls Jude’s selflessness, always celebrating his teammates’ successes, embodying true leadership.
Alabama’s interest in Jude never waned. As his senior season wrapped up, the Crimson Tide extended a roster spot, offering him a chance to compete. While academic scholarships weren’t guaranteed, the opportunity to don the crimson and white was too enticing to pass up.
Mike Cascone always believed Jude would make it to a stage like Alabama. Whether through different paths, like playing in the Ivy League or transferring later, the goal was always major college football. Jude chose Alabama, ready to work hard against top talent, develop his skills, and let his journey unfold.
Mike draws a parallel to Riley Nowakowski, a key player for Indiana, who exemplified the role Jude could fill-reliable, hardworking, and crucial to the team’s success.
As Jude begins his chapter with the Crimson Tide, Coach Brunner is confident in his potential. Holding one of the 105 roster spots signifies his value to the team. “I don’t think they bring anybody in if they don’t think they will have a chance to get on the field in some capacity,” Brunner asserts.
Jude Cascone is a player the Alabama fanbase is bound to embrace.