FAU wide receiver Marcus Cunningham had 18 receptions last season.
2012 Position Preview: WR
Florida Atlantic will have a tough competition in training camp to find its receivers.
Originally published on
7/29/2012
by
Chuck King
When Florida Atlantic opens fall camp this week the marquee battle will be for starting quarterback. The most interesting battle – and perhaps the most entertaining – will be among the wide receivers.
The depth chart likely will change on a daily basis as the Owls look for playmakers.
Consider:
- Of all the receivers expected to be ready for the opening game, Marcus Cunningham had the most receptions for the Owls last season with 18.
- That group of receivers have combined to catch only 44 passes in their FAU careers.
- In that group, only Cunningham and Derek Moise have found the end zone – each doing so one time last season.
FAU attempted to add depth to its receiving corps during the spring, but a couple big injuries slowed the unit's progress. Paul Moore was having a strong spring before a knee injury cut short his workouts. The knee is completely healed, allowing Moore to begin the summer atop the depth chart in the slot.
The news isn't as good for DeAndre Richardson. Last season's leading pass catcher with 32 underwent ankle surgery following the spring and will not be ready for the opening game. FAU coaches are hopeful that Richardson could take the field some time this season.
FAU will have plenty of new faces looking to replace Richardson's production, with junior college transfer Daniel McKinney leading the charge.
Jeremy Glinton, Chris Gilchrist and Adrian Burton, all members of the 2012 signing class, also have the skill to make an immediate impact.
And there is a chance former Ohio St. and Alabama receiver Duron Carter, son of former NFL receiver Cris Carter, will be granted a hardship waiver by the NCAA and could suit up for the Owls.
“I would like to have a group of wideouts that are physical, that play fast, and that have a quiet arrogance about them,” wide receivers coach Jeff Sims said. “We say, Let the beast out. I want receivers to want the ball, but within the scheme of the offense.”
Owl Access Projected Depth Chart
WR
William Dukes (6-4, 195, So.)
Potential to be an All-Sun Belt receiver sooner rather than later.
Marcus Cunningham (6-0, 180 R-So.)
One of the hardest workers on the Owls, caught 18 passes last season.
Slot
Paul Moore (5-9, 165 R-Sr.)
Only caught four passes in 2012. Could break out this season if he stays healthy.
Brendan Myers (6-1, 187, Fr.)
Walk-on received a look in the spring because of injuries and made some plays.
WR
Derek Moise (6-2, 185 So.)
Best hands on the team. If he can get open, will catch plenty of passes.
Brian Sirmans (6-3, 185, R-So.)
Moved from DB to WR in the spring. Surprised coaches with his speed.
Key Losses
None.
Key Reserves
Blake Bierman (5-10, 180, R-So.)
Hard worker has made his mark mostly on special teams.
Byron Hankerson (6-1, 180, Sr.)
If academics are in order, this walk-on has the speed to be a factor.
Jerrard Hunter (6-3, 185, R-So.)
Health has been the main question during Hunter's time in Boca Raton.