PISCATAWAY, N.J. (AP) — Rutgers has signed the first member of its 2011 football recruiting class, center Dallas Hendrikson of Iowa Western Community College.

In making the announcement Wednesday, coach Greg Schiano described Hendrikson as a smart, tough, unselfish player who has the potential to be a big part of the Scarlet Knights’ offensive line.

Rutgers posted a 4-8 record this past season, losing its final six games.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.