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An intriguing freshman quarterback has transferred to Newport Harbor.
Los Alamitos’ Jaden O’Neal, who backed up Malachi Nelson last season, has enrolled at Newport Harbor, his father Jerren confirmed Thursday. O’Neal’s first day of classes at his new school was Thursday, his father said.
O’Neal first gained notice on the Orange County scene during the summer when he played for the Griffins in the Mission Viejo passing tournament.
During the season, he competed well in relief of an injured Nelson in a 52-0 loss to Mater Dei in the CIF-SS Division 1 semifinals. The Monarchs were ranked No. 1 in the nation at the time.
The 6-foot-3, 200-pound O’Neal holds eight scholarship offers: Arizona, Louisville, San Jose State, Texas A&M, Oregon, Penn State, Syracuse and Arizona State.
He has been tutored by private coaches Ortege Jenkins, Ryan Porter, Danny Hernandez and Tim Chou, Jerren O’Neal said.
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Newport Harbor needs a replacement next season for senior quarterback Colton Joseph.
Los Alamitos also needs a quarterback to replace Nelson, a three-year starter who has signed with USC. Sierra Canyon sophomore quarterback Alonzo Esparza has enrolled at Los Alamitos, Griffins coach Ray Fenton confirmed.
Newport Harbor and Los Alamitos are both part of the Sunset League.
Please send football news to Dan Albano at [email protected] or @ocvarsityguy on Twitter