Latest Stop for Former N.J. 5-Star Recruit in His Twisting College Football Journey

Antonio Alfano has found a new opportunity in his football career. Once a highly touted defensive line recruit from Colonia, who made headlines at Bergen Catholic, Rahway, and Colonia High School before committing to Alabama in 2019, Alfano is now enrolled at Lackawanna College in Scranton, Pennsylvania, as reported by 247Sports’ Brian Dohn.

Lackawanna College, known for producing Division I talent, offers Alfano a chance to revive his football career. “He’s showing a great attitude in workouts and is a tremendous athlete,” said Lackawanna coach Mark Duda. “We’re here to support him in achieving his goals and I’m excited to coach him.”

Alfano’s journey has been fraught with challenges. After signing with Alabama, he didn’t see any game action and chose to transfer midway through his freshman year. His grandmother, Victoria Richardson, who was a remarkable part of his life, fell ill and passed away in late November. Following this, Alfano transferred to Colorado in January 2020.

His tenure with the Buffaloes was marked by difficulties, including a suspension and subsequent reinstatement by then-coach Karl Dorrell. Alfano faced health issues, experiencing seizures and being diagnosed with epilepsy, which hindered his ability to practice or play during the fall of 2020.

In a heartfelt social media post, Alfano expressed his struggle with epilepsy and the impact it had on his life and football aspirations. Despite these setbacks, he transferred to Independence Community College in Kansas in spring 2022 and, having not played that fall, is now at Lackawanna, aiming to make his college football debut.