West Deptford tackle orally commits to Penn State

 Jamil Pollard, an Inquirer first-team all-South Jersey offensive tackle from West Deptford, said he was going to make an oral commitment to Penn State again after competing in Thursday night's Offense-Defense Bowl, a senior all-star game at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Pollard had committed to Penn State during the spring but was later told Penn State couldn't make a commitment to him until he improved academically.

Penn State continued to remain in touch. Pollard made an official visit to Boston College and will make an official visit to Penn State on Jan. 13.

Pollard, who helped West Deptford win the South Jersey Group 2 championship, said he remained committed to Penn State, regardless of who is named the new head coach.

"I never stopped loving the program," he said Thursday afternoon by phone. "It doesn't matter who is on the coaching staff."

At the all-star game, Pollard has forged close ties to Nyeem Wartman, a linebacker from Pennsylvania's Valley View High who has also committed to Penn State.

"I am completely happy with my decision," Pollard said. "I am happy to have it done."