Washington Huskies: Revamped receiver group leads to cautious optimism
Herb Nightengale
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There is cause to be optimistic about UW receivers. Make no mistake; this is a very raw group. After Bynum, the Washington Huskies’ next most experienced receivers are Jackson with 16 games and then Polk. Considering Polk has ten games under his belt, experienced might not be the right word. Also, keep in mind that Jackson saw most of his time on special teams. Following the transfer duo, Odunze and McMillan have a combined eight games.
There were other receivers fighting to make a name for themselves this spring. They are juniors Brennan Holmes and David Pritchard, sophomores Nick Juran and Camden VerStrate, and redshirt freshmen Charlie Fuller and Mason Wheeler.
Due to the overall lack of experience, Bynum has added weight on his shoulders to be a leader. According to Lauren Kirschman of the Tacoma News Tribune, the senior said he was up to the task during a spring practice presser.
“I feel like I have to take a big role, just teaching (the younger players) the little stuff — like defenses,” Bynum said. “They’re smart guys so they understand the offense, but just how to adjust the routes based off defenses and understanding coverages and blitzes and whatnot. But they’re picking it up fast. They’re young, but they’re smart.”
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One player not mentioned, but a strong candidate for playing time next fall is four-star recruit Jabez Tinae. He was quarterback Sam Huard’s big target at Kennedy Catholic High School. 24/7 sports projects Tinae as someone who can come in and make an immediate contribution.
Summer camp will be interesting to see how the young guys move up to be possible starters and steady contributors. With one exception, the competition is wide open.