Last year, Howlraiser pressed his ear to Butch Jones’ door and identified three obscure names who would be known by season’s end – Miller McCrumby (TE), Justin Hodges (DE) and Cedric Hawkins (RB). Today, all three are important members of the roster.

Who should we circle on our roster sheet this season? The team is more cemented by experience in 2024 that it was last season. However, player deeds are still raising eyebrows even as Game One with UCA approaches. Who are they?

Devin Spencer, Freshman Running Back

Today, the running back room hasn’t been in better shape in years, with the Thunder Troika of Zac Wallace, Ja’Quez Cross and Cedric Hawkins expected to do the majority of hoisting. However, true freshman Devin Spencer, a 5’8″ 183-pound 3-star recruit out of Florida, has been making significant noise in camp with his speed and maturity. Jones also likes his work work on special teams, which may be enough to keep the redshirt in the closet.

James Reed, Junior Cornerback

Reed made two starts for the Red Wolves last year, so we knew he had some chops. But it’s Reed’s name that bubbles to the surface as a guy who’s made a significant leap. Look for the 5’10”, 190-pounds Reed to provide see more action this season – and more starts.

Riley McGehee, Freshman Offensive Line

Offensive line coach Andy Kwon has plenty of bigs to put in the offensive trenches, but one guy Jones likes is true freshman Riley McGehee, a 6’6″ 298-pounds 3-star out of Alabama. In a position that requires plenty of rotations, McGehee could easily see some PT.

Marvin Ham, Redshirt Senior (T) Linebacker

When Melique Straker was denied another year of service and Javante Mackey elected to bail to Memphis, the Red Wolves were left with a talent gap at linebacker. However, a dip into the Portal produced some fine available talent, including 6’1″ 231-pound impact-man from Colorado Marvin Ham. Stalwarts Charles Wilekes and Dane Motley are projected starters, but expect Ham to see plenty of time on the field.

Braden Jackson, Freshman Cornerback

Jackson is a three-star talent out of Alabama who Butch Jones was quick to praise during the Sun Belt Presser on Monday. While there is some leadership at CB this season, depth is a concern, and Jackson’s size (6’0″ 181-pounds) and speed may be too good to redshirt.

PHOTO: Me