Utah State’s football program faces a significant challenge in its wide receiver corps, with a noticeable scarcity of returning experience. Despite this, Head Coach Bronco Mendenhall expresses unwavering confidence in the Aggies’ strategic replacements, signaling a new era for the team’s aerial attack.
The depth of this challenge is underscored by the fact that USU didn’t return a single wideout who caught a pass last fall. Furthermore, the team lost its five most productive wide receivers from the previous campaign, a group that collectively accounted for an impressive 2,415 yards and 22 touchdowns on 200 receptions.
Among the notable departures are outside targets Otto Tia and Grant Page, alongside slot receivers Kyrese White and Jack Hestera, all of whom have moved on to new ventures. White, a standout with 526 receiving yards last season, has exhausted his eligibility and is now making strides as an undrafted free agent for the Denver Broncos, even earning a feature in the Denver Post.
The transfer portal proved to be a crucial resource for the Aggies Football program in addressing these losses, with Mendenhall expressing particular satisfaction with the quality of players brought in. He specifically highlighted Braden Pegan, Brady Boyd, Demick Starling, and Corey Thompson Jr. as key additions expected to make an immediate impact for USU Football.
Mendenhall humorously noted the surprising eligibility of Demick Starling, a player who also competed for Virginia’s track team with an impressive 100-meter time. Starling’s return to Mendenhall’s program for a second stint, albeit in a more mature version, has clearly pleased the coach, underscoring the strategic recruitment for the Wide Receivers unit.
The coach emphasized the success in recruiting experienced players, stating, “When we went for experience to address the lack of starters, I believe we went four for four, not only (based) on the quality of player, but the type of person and that’s really helpful.” This holistic approach extends beyond the transfer portal, incorporating both seasoned athletes and promising high school talents.
Beyond the transfers, the Aggies have also bolstered their roster with two true freshmen receivers, Kaleb Mitchell (6-6) and Ty Olsen (6-1), both of whom had scholarship offers from Power 4 Conference programs. Olsen, a state champion from Lincoln (California), was notably recruited by current USU offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven during his tenure at San Jose State, showcasing strategic future planning for College Football success.
The existing core of returning receivers, including senior Kahanu Davis (5-10), sophomore Jackson Olson (6-4), and redshirt freshman Tate Kjar (5-10), provides a crucial foundation. Davis, a proven slot receiver, excelled as one of the Mountain West’s top punt returners last year, while Kjar was a record-breaking wideout at Corner Canyon High School, contributing to a diverse and increasingly healthy receiver room.
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