The #2 Tight End In Oregon: AJ Pugliano

AJ Pugliano is a 4 Star recruit who plays Tight End at North Medford High School. Pugliano is ranked as the 217th best recruit in the class of 2024 and is ranked as a top 20 Tight End in the class as well. In addition, Pugliano is listed as the #2 recruit in the state of Oregon and is listed as the #2 Tight End in the state of Oregon. His top offers are Oregon, Oregon State, and Arizona.

Who are some role models in your life?

A role model in my life is for sure my mom. She’s encouraged me and guided me on my path my whole life. She’s made sacrifices to no extent and always been able to do her best and give me what i need/want,

What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?

I listen to whatever the team plays. I’m not too big into music, but lately I’ve been in a big country phase listening to Zach Bryan, Morgan Wallen, etc.

What are the strengths of your game?

The strength of my game is my versatility. I can play 3-4 positions on both sides of the ball and succeed at it. On offense especially I can block, catch, run routes, make plays after the catch, etc at an elite level.

What is your favorite memory of your career?

My favorite memory is my game winning catch against Liberty last year. With about a minute and a half left I took a 5 yard out route 40 yards to the house and put us ahead.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?

The best player I’ve played with is my older brother Ty. Although not highly ranked he is the number one guy I’d want to play with. He’s the definition of the ultimate teammate and knows how to win no matter what.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?

I would tell those other athletes to focus on their paths. There’s a lot of social media hype and talk that goes around so it’s easy to get distracted by it. Stay true to your grind and work and everything will work out how it should.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I would want to travel to Greece.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?

My middle school days, when I made the switch from Lineman to Tight End, is when I began to love it. Feeling the thrill of scoring and catching a ball made me want to play that much more.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?

I wish I could meet Justin Herbert. He’s a Southern Oregon guy like me and played at Oregon, so I really look up to him.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?

As a fan, my favorite moment is the Rose Bowl when Oregon beat Florida State to go to the National Championship.