A three-star prospect according to rivals.com, espn.com and scout.com, Fernando is an offensive tackle candidate joining the San Jose State team. The biggest signee physically at 6-foot-7 and 290 pounds was a two-time first-team All-Central Coast Section and league Offensive Lineman of the Year for Independence High in San Jose (Coach Norman Brown). As a senior, he saw action at offensive tackle, tight end, fullback, defensive end and middle linebacker. Villanueva concluded his high school career playing in the 2011 Cal State All-Star Football Game in Fresno, Calif. The three-sport letterwinner also lettered in basketball and track. Villanueva will be his second season as a shot put and discuss thrower. Fernando plans to major in broadcast journalism. He hopes, one day, to be sportscaster for ESPN. Villanueva likes the on-air presence of Charles Barkley. Presently, Villanueva enjoys photography. The San Jose native was born on February 7, 1994.

Other reported official visits: Washington State, Colorado State

Other reported scholarship offers: Washington State, Colorado State, Utah, Utah State, Fresno State

Mike MacIntyre says: “Fernando is an offensive tackle/defensive end. He played both ways at Independence High School (in San Jose) I don’t know if he’ll be an offensive tackle or a defensive end. We’ll see where he fits. He’s a big, strong athlete.”