Kyle Monangai Turns Heads at Practice With Explosiveness, Vision, and Work Ethic, Emerging as Breakout Offensive Threat for 2025 Season

It’s early in fall camp, but one name continues to echo across the practice fields in Piscataway: Kyle Monangai.

The Rutgers senior running back is rapidly becoming the star of training camp, showcasing the tools, toughness, and maturity that coaches and teammates believe will make him one of the most dynamic backs in the Big Ten this fall.

Coming off a breakout junior season in which he led the Scarlet Knights in rushing with 1,095 yards and 9 touchdowns, Monangai has hit another gear during preseason workouts. His combination of low center of gravity, elite vision, and relentless drive has positioned him as a central figure in Rutgers’ 2025 offensive scheme — and possibly, one of the nation’s most underrated returning tailbacks.

A Veteran With Something to Prove

Monangai isn’t new to the spotlight. He’s been a steady contributor since his freshman year, gradually working his way up the depth chart. But after an impressive 2024 campaign, expectations have shifted. No longer just a dependable ball carrier, Monangai is now expected to be a game-changer.

“I’ve always bet on myself,” Monangai said following a recent practice. “But this year, I’m betting on the whole team. I think we’re ready to surprise some people.”

Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano echoed that sentiment.

“Kyle sets the tone,” Schiano said. “Whether it’s in the weight room, in the film study, or out here on the field — he leads. And that’s contagious.”

Practice Highlights Turning Heads

During recent sessions, Monangai has wowed onlookers with his footwork, balance, and quick decision-making. On one particular inside run drill, he made three defenders miss in rapid succession before bouncing outside for a 25-yard gain. Coaches erupted. Teammates shouted. Even defensive players acknowledged the greatness on display.

“He’s a monster,” linebacker Deion Jennings said. “It’s hard to bring him down. And if you’re not locked in, he’ll embarrass you.”

Monangai’s ability to hit the hole with authority and then make a quick lateral cut has become a staple of his highlight reel. More than just a bruising back, he’s proving himself to be a complete player — one who can catch out of the backfield, pick up blitzes, and finish runs with power.

Physical Transformation Paying Off

Monangai spent the offseason transforming his body, reportedly adding 10 pounds of muscle without sacrificing speed. The added strength has helped him absorb contact better while maintaining his trademark burst.

“He looks like an NFL back now,” said strength coach Kenny Parker. “His offseason work ethic was off the charts, and it’s translating big time.”

The improvements have also helped him in pass protection, where he’s earned rave reviews from offensive coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca for his ability to identify and neutralize blitzers.

“You want your running back to be an extension of the quarterback,” Ciarrocca said. “Kyle’s communication and execution in pass pro have been excellent.”

An NFL Future?

While Monangai’s focus remains on leading Rutgers to a bowl game and competing in the Big Ten, scouts are starting to take notice. With the NFL increasingly valuing backs who can do it all, Monangai’s stock is rising.

“He’s one of the best-kept secrets in college football,” one anonymous NFL scout told local media. “He’s compact, he’s smart, and he can play three downs. Don’t be surprised if he hears his name called in April.”

Monangai, for his part, is keeping a level head.

“I’m not thinking about the draft,” he said. “I’m thinking about being the best teammate I can be, winning games, and representing Rutgers with pride.”

A Leadership Role Embraced

In addition to his on-field performance, Monangai has embraced a leadership role off the field. Younger backs like Samuel Brown V and Ja’shon Benjamin have praised Monangai’s mentorship and willingness to share knowledge.

“He’s like a big brother,” Brown said. “He doesn’t hoard what he knows. He helps us get better, too.”

That selflessness has helped cultivate a strong culture within the running back room — one that Schiano believes will be pivotal in close games.

“When your best players are also your best leaders, you have something special,” Schiano said.

Rutgers’ Offensive Outlook With Monangai

Monangai’s emergence comes at a critical time for the Scarlet Knights, who are looking to rebound after an inconsistent 2024 season. With a new-look offensive line and a quarterback battle still unfolding, Monangai offers stability and reliability.

“He’s our engine,” said wide receiver Ian Strong. “When Kyle’s rolling, the whole offense clicks.”

Expect Rutgers to lean heavily on the ground game early in the season, with Monangai as the focal point. His ability to churn out tough yards and control the tempo will be crucial, especially in Big Ten East matchups.

Looking Ahead: The Season Begins

As the season opener against Howard approaches, anticipation is building. Fans, coaches, and teammates alike are eager to see if Monangai can carry his training camp dominance into the regular season.

If early returns are any indication, the Scarlet Knights may have a legitimate star on their hands — and one capable of changing the narrative around Rutgers football.

Kyle Monangai has always been tough, resilient, and determined. But this version of him — faster, stronger, and hungrier than ever — could be something truly special.

Whether he’s grinding out tough yards between the tackles or breaking a long run down the sideline, Monangai is proving that he’s ready to take the next step in his football journey. And as he turns heads at practice, he’s also turning up the expectations for what Rutgers can accomplish this fall.

One thing is clear: Kyle Monangai isn’t just preparing for a big season — he’s preparing to lead a movement.