New Britain, CT — Rahtrel Perry, towering over other players on the football field at 6-foot-5 and 305 pounds, has become one of the hottest names in the college football transfer portal. Hailing from New London, Connecticut, Perry's story from a high school standout to a probable Power Four offensive lineman is that of commitment and raw ability.

High School Roots

Perry's football career took root at Trinity-Pawling School in Pawling, New York, being a part of the graduating class of 2022. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic disruptions, Perry performed well enough to be recognized and selected into the All-ECC First Team offense. This is a very distinguished selection for an offensive lineman.

College Journey at Central Connecticut State

When he finally arrived at Central Connecticut State University, Perry did not waste any time. He saw action in four games in 2022 to lay the building blocks for what was an outstanding 2023 season. In the last season alone, Perry was more than a participant; he was an integral cog in the Blue Devils' offensive line, playing in all 11 games. His contributions were vital, as Central Connecticut's offensive line was considered one of the best in pass protection in the NEC. They gave up just seven sacks in 12 games, a number that ranked them second in the FCS behind powerhouse South Dakota State.

Perry's play was impactful enough to earn him All-NEC First Team honors in 2023, which speaks volumes about his blocking and athleticism. Of course, he did much more than just keep quarterbacks upright throughout his career; Perry has been known to drive defensive linemen into the ground, showing strength and an aggressive style, especially in run blocking.

The Transfer Portal Leap

Now, Rahtrel Perry is at a crossroads, having entered the transfer portal with eyes set on elevating his game at a higher competitive level. His move has stirred the interest of several leading programs, including Syracuse, LSU, Washington, and Vanderbilt, but it's his visit to Ohio State that has stirred the most interest, given the storied history of the Buckeyes and their need for bolstering in the offensive line.

The portal profile of Perry brings out his size, strength, and the aggressive nature of his play. According to Pro Football Focus, in his last season at Central Connecticut, he played 902 offensive snaps with an overall grade of 62.4. Not as much of a 'sure thing' as some established FBS offensive linemen, his physical attributes and performance metrics provide significant upside for any program looking to strengthen their line.

What's Next

With Perry at a crossroads of sorts, the Ohio State visit has a chance to be that pivotal point in his recruitment. The Buckeyes - with Justin Frye recruiting him - appear interested in having Perry as part of the solution both for immediate needs and down the line on the line. The thought of going from the FCS level to possibly starting at one of college football's most prestigious programs would be an incredible story of development and opportunity.

Whether Perry dons the scarlet and gray or chooses another path, his talent, work ethic, and the story of his rise through college football are sure to be followed closely by fans and analysts alike. Rahtrel Perry is not just a name on a transfer list; he's a symbol of what dedication and hard work can achieve in the world of college football.