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Purdue Adds Another Defensive Lineman Via Transfer Portal

Originally posted on Purdue Boilermakers on SI
By Dustin Schutte | Last updated May 8, 2025 1:15 PM ET

Barry Odom's massive haul from the transfer portal added another piece on Thursday. Purdue earned a commitment from former Long Island University defensive lineman Elijah St. John.

A 6-foot-1, 275-pound defensive lineman, St. John enjoyed an outstanding sophomore campaign in 2024 with the Sharks. He played in all 12 games last fall, racking up 40 tackles, two forced fumbles and a sack.

Per On3's Pete Nakos, St. John was ranked among the top-10 defensive linemen at the FCS level during the 2024 season.

St. John is a native of Clearwater, Fla. and was not ranked as a high school prospect. Now, he's looking to make a difference at the Power Four level.

LIU defensive lineman Elijah St. John has committed to Purdue, his agents tell @SWiltfong_ and I.

His 84.3 PFF grade ranked among the top 10 FCS DTs last season.https://t.co/VxSGJETKD9 pic.twitter.com/ThPGnijozU
— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos_) May 8, 2025

St. John comes to Purdue after spending his first two seasons at Long Island. Across two years, he played in 20 games and accounted for 53 total tackles. He will have two years of eligibility remaining in West Lafayette.

Odom and his staff have recruited nearly 60 players from the transfer portal since being hired at Purdue in December. The Boilermakers are going to have a completely different look in the 2025 season — not a bad thing after a 1-11 year.

This article first appeared on Purdue Boilermakers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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