Deng Brings Star Power With Commitment to Cal

The Bears picked up a big commitment this evening with the addition of 6-6/235 Independence CC (Independence, Kansas) outside linebacker Kuony Deng.

The 4 star OLB will bring an instant edge rush threat to the Top 15 Cal defense next season.

“Kuony’s skillset is multiple because of his athletic ability and high football IQ,” said Independence CC defensive coordinator Jason Martin. “He can be on the field vs. Oregon because of his speed or he can be on the field against Stanford, to help stop power football.  On top of athletic ability, he is a student of the game that is coachable.  I expect Kuony to continue being a productive leader on and off the field.

“Kuony is a natural leader because he naturally is the same guy everyday. He’s a reliable individual that demands respect because of his constant positive actions.”

“Kuony is a heck of a player,” said assistant defensive line coach Jake Bugg. “He’s one of the smartest players I’ve been around  who can easily read defenses and understand what they are trying to do against us. He’s physical, fast, has good hands and has the “IT” factor to take over games on the defensive side of the ball. Cal is getting the top LB in JUCO.”

The Bears are getting more than a highly-talented athlete in Deng but one that can potentially spur his future defensive teammates towards bigger things by work ethic and leadership.

“Kuony is a lead by example, do the right things kind of player, both on and off the field,” said Bugg. “Players follow him because of that. He’s a guy our younger kids have looked up to and watch because his work ethic is the kind of work ethic you want all your players to have and they see that the success he’s had is because of the hard work he’s put in.

“I expect Kuony to become an All American at Cal. The potential is there for him to be one of the best defensive players to play for Cal in a long time. He’s going to be a guy Cal can count on every game to make plays and help them win.”

At John Champe High School in Aldie, VA, Deng played wide receiver and outside linebacker and was named the conference Player of the Year after helping team to a 10-0 season in 2015. Deng also played four years of basketball, averaging 19.2 points per game and was named first team all-state and conference Player of the Year.

Deng received his release after playing one year at VMI in 2016 as well as one basketball game before deciding to ask for his release from VMI.

The Bears beat out a host of tough competition for Deng’s services, including LSU, Auburn, Virginia Tech, Texas, UCLA, Oregon and more.

At Indepence CC, Deng compiled 48 tackles, one sack, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and six pass breakups in 10 games.

The top-rated JC linebacker in the nation will sign with Cal in December and enroll as an early entrant in January.