National Signing Day: Andrejas Duerig's Ready To Make Pancakes For Orange

What's one way to replace nearly an entire offensive line? With players like Andrejas "AJ" Duerig -- aka, the Pancake Maker. Since committing back in June, the Chicago product has spent his time hanging out with other SU recruits, going to the Varsity and winning Syracuse basketballs. And now, he finally signs his letter of intent.

Twitter - @AJDuerig

High School - Mount Carmel HS, Chicago, Illinois

Position - Offensive Guard

Stats - 6'4'', 272lbs

Main Recruiter - Joe Adam

Commitment Date - June 17th

Ratings - Scout (3), Rivals (2), ESPN (3), 24/7 (3)

Other Offers - Austin Peay, Buffalo, Florida Atlantic, Illinois State, Toledo, Western Michigan

Highlights -

Ben's Breakdown

Andrejas was the final piece of SU's 5 man offensive line haul back in June, and he's the most important piece as well. Duerig was brought in to play center, and seems like the type of cerebral player who can excel in the role. The Orange roster currently only holds two centers, Jason Emerich and Donnie Foster (a preferred walk-on), so the potential is there for AJ to push for a starting job as soon as this year.

However, like with most offensive lineman, you would expect AJ to redshirt, and I think that's the realistic outlook here. The closer to the football you get, the harder it is to play right away. Duerig's a hardnosed German that Shafer will love, and I think over the next few years he makes a big name for himself, and follows in the footsteps of another Syracuse player from Mount Carmel High School...