The next generation of Red Wolves wide receivers are ready to contribute

A cosmic burst of energy metastasized into a Golden Mini-Era of Wide Receiving at Arkansas State – the result of pass-focused offenses, throw-happy quarterbacks, and a spate of talent at wideout, arguably beginning when Tre Houston led the SBC in receiving in 2015. Since Houston, the Red Wolves have been blessed by the talents of Chris Murray, Kendall Sanders, Kirk Merritt, Omar Bayless, Jonathan Adams and Corey Rucker, all of whom led in conference receiving categories or were given prestigious, end-of-season awards.

Today, the position is open for fresh blood; a new perspective. In recent seasons, the Red Wolves have focused on size at the position. Judging by Butch Jones’ recruiting and portal work, the program now seems to be setting a premium on speed.

Who will we see shame some opposing corners and safeties this season? We’ve already dubbed this year as The Season of Te’Vailance Hunt. But the former Horned Frog isn’t the only Red Wolf who will be plucking pigskin from the air in 2022. Let’s check out the stable.

#10 TeVailance Hunt, Sr

Hunt, named to the 2022 Biletnikoff Award Watch List, emerges as the leading target for presumed starting QB James Blackman, and why not? The 6’1″, 200-pound target finished second on the team last season with 740 receiving yards and six touchdowns on 51 receptions – a solid foundation to build a career-year upon.

#7 Champ Flemings, rSr (transfer Oregon State)

At 5’5″, 145 pounds, Flemings isn’t going to out muscle SBC corners like ala Bayless and Adams. But Flemings (a former three-star prospect) is said to be scary fast, once posting a 4.56 40 at an Oregon State combine. Flemings may represent that oily speed Jones covets so much.

#11 Jeff Foreman, rJr

Foreman tallied 556 receiving yards on 31 catches last season, which fell short of expectations set by a very promising 2020 season. Last year, Foreman only caught one more TD pass after his fantastic 198 receiving yards and two TD performance against Memphis. However, signs points to a bounce-back in 2022.  

#28 Reagan Ealy, So

On just 136 receiving yards on 11 catches, the 160-pound wideout became popular with the fans for his plucky play. The WR room will lean heavier on Ealy’s sure hands in 2022.

#6 Wyatt Begeal, rFr

Recruited as a quarterback, Begeal (as the legend is told) approached Butch Jones and recommended himself to join the receiver ranks. Blessed with a scrambler’s speed, Begeal can certainly create yards after the play – and toss a pass, if the flea-flicker requires it.

#11 Adam Jones, rSo

Those who paid attention last season saw the coaches son make big plays with limited opportunities. Listed at 6’2″, 188 pounds, the Central Michigan transfer looks to take his speciality role to another level.

#81 Omari Walker, rFr

Wanna talk speed? Let’s talk speed. Walker was a 3-star recruit by 247Sports and ESPN who bears track experienced – he clocked in at 10.50 in the 100 meter dash as a Junior Olympic All-American. Walker didn’t see the field much in 2021, but his speed may be too valuable to keep benched this season.

#8 Khyheem Wayleed, rSo

Wayleed, a three-star recruit according to ESPN, 247Sports and Rivals, transferred from Boise State last season and made an appearance in just five games. At nearly 6″ and 200 pounds, Wayleed could prove to be a bruising presence.

#0 Daverrick Jenkins, F

Jenkins in the highest rated receiver in the 2022 class. The 6’2″ talent is a 247Sports composite listed him the No. 182 wide receiver in the nation. It’s doubtful we’ll see Jenkins on the field much, if at all, but he’s one to look for.  

Photo Credit: MINE