Boston College Football 2014: James Hendren, OL

Boston College head coach Steve Addazio stated very clearly that he wanted his football program to identify and secure local high school talent. James Hendren qualifies.

Hendren hails from down the road in Brookline, where he played offensive tackle for Dexter Southfield. While there, he worked diligently and would eventually become one of the best recruits in Massachusetts for the 2014 class.

The offer list which James Hendren accumulated during that time was impressive. Including Boston College, it grew to include Arkansas, Penn State, Vanderbilt, Rutgers, and Wake Forest, as well as several FCS programs. It appeared, however, that the choice for Hendren was clear from the start. Growing up so close to it and getting a sense of the university’s tradition and history, there is every reason to believe that when Hendren said yes to Addazio, he got into his “dream school.”

That’s the sort of thing that makes it easy for coaches to recruit a player: when the recruit already loves a school before they even make the phone call. We like to see that sort of spirit around here.

Now, as for the matter at hand, which is his actual playing time. How is this situation looking for 2014?

James Hendren: Fast Facts

• Position: Offensive tackle
• Hometown: Brookline, Massachusetts
• High School: Dexter Southfield School, Brookline, MA
• Measurements: 6-foot-7, 307 lb.
• Class year at 2014 opener: Freshman
• BC games played: 0

James Hendren: 2013 Season (HS)

• Starting offensive tackle; also listed at defensive end, and he was good at that as well
• Did not appear on Spring 2014 roster

Given what we know of James Hendren’s abilities and his upside, there is every reason to believe that he could be a significant contributor to “O-Line U” in the years ahead. The problem is that seasons like 2016 or 2017 would be extremely difficult to forecast here and now; 2014 is the only thing we can evaluate.

With a veteran offensive line already in place, a redshirt is a very likely outcome for Hendren in his first year, save for injuries that could force him to play as a true freshman.

Missed any 2014 player or season previews? Click the “114 Days” tag below to catch up on what we’ve shared so far.