:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62708728/usa_today_11392716.0.jpg)
Ryan Franke out of Oaks Christian High School in California has officially signed to play for Oregon State.
.@RyanFranke55 is looking to make an impact on #BeaverNation, and comes to Corvallis with winning in his blood, helping Oaks Christian to a D2 CIF Championship as a junior. Welcome to #BeaverNation! #BTD19 #GoBeavs pic.twitter.com/I9ejOE3SPh
— Oregon State Football (@BeaverFootball) December 19, 2018
The 6-foot-4, 210-pound athlete played on the defensive line in his school, but is a natural fit at outside linebacker with his athleticism. The Beavers will look to move Franke to his more natural position as a linebacker.
Franke shared the field with the one of the top recruits in the nation in Kayvon Thibodeaux, but still found a way to display his talents. Look for Ryan Franke to be a talented playmaker for Oregon State. As a hybrid OLB/DE he’ll be able to rush the passer with his strong motor and still make plays in space.
Last season a number of true freshman linebackers had a huge impact (Matthew Tago, Isaiah Tufaga and John McCartan). Ryan Franke might not be called upon for immediate action, but don’t be surprised if he works his way into a big-time role for this Beaver defense.