From QB to D-I TE, big season for 2024 Bryant TE David Paglianite
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Being a good athlete at the high school level can lead one to playing multiple positions over the course of three to four years. At Bryant High School (Ark.), David Paglianite (6-2, 240) was one of those guys. Since the 2012 season, the Hornets have been one of Arkansas’ top high school football programs churning out state championships. Racking up the big wins on the field is producing next level talent, another area where Paglianite is one of those guys.
The 2024 prospect spoke about his journey at Bryant leading him to playing tight end.
“I came to Bryant as a linebacker,” Paglianite stated. “They moved me to quarterback about a month into the offseason because we had an injury to our first string QB. My junior year, I played QB and practiced at QB, and played JV. I went in occasionally on varsity.
“For my senior year, they moved me to tight end and H-back; I did train outside of school just for that part. I do have experience at quite a few positions.”
Bryant’s offense and Paglianite’s fit into the scheme was covered.
“We ran a Spread,” Paglianite said. “We had a really good run game; we ran more than we threw it. Our offense used a double tight end set a lot; I was pretty much out there to block for the majority of the year. I was new to it, but I got a lot better. I caught a few balls and got a few touchdowns.”
David Paglianite at Arkansas State
Picking up a new position, everything improved but some strengths as a tight end developed.
“I’d say my blocking is my strong suit,” Paglianite shared. “I didn’t get to catch as much as I hoped. We had really strong receivers. I was new to the receiving aspect of it. Blocking is my strength. I did get some touchdowns; I can catch too.”
Paglianite’s recruiting status was updated.
“I have a preferred walk-on offer from A-State (Arkansas State), but my recruitment is still open,” Paglianite stated. “Notre Dame has looked at my National Prospect ID. Harding and Ouachita Baptist are showing interest.”
Teams brought the rising 2024 talent to campus this fall.
“I took a visit to Ouachita Baptist, Harding, and recently to A-State,” Paglianite said.
The Red Wolves showed out against Texas State (Nov. 18) with Paglianite in attendance.
“It went really well,” Paglianite shared. “They treated me really well. They have a great facility. They handled the team they played; they won 77-31.”
With the visit brought a verbal commitment to head to Jonesboro.
“I committed to A-State the weekend before Thanksgiving,” Paglianite stated.
Paglianite continued sharing what drew him to A-State, “Everything about them. Their facilities are top notch, I like their players, and it is a great opportunity in general for me. I’ve always wanted to play at the next level.”
Nick Grimes (TE) has been Paglianite’s primary recruiter on the Red Wolves’ staff.
“They are recruiting me as a tight end and H-back,” Paglianite said. “During the offseason, I will be working on getting better and getting prepared for the next level.”