Newcomer receivers try to mesh with vets

UCF went into fall camp relying on a pair of veteran wideouts in Jaylon Robinson and Ryan O’Keefe to lead a receivers group that is both young and inexperienced. But despite their general lack of seasoning, the group is talented and hungry, which are hallmarks of a unit waiting for a breakout season.

The Knights must make up for the loss of three of their top five receivers from last season as Marlon Williams (1,039 yards), Jacob Harris (539 yards) and Tre Nixon (260 yards) left early for the NFL, taking with them more than half of the receiving production from 2020.

Robinson and O’Keefe are the only receivers with double-digit receptions last season.

“I think we’re a tremendous group,” said Robinson, who was third in the American Athletic Conference in receptions (55) and receiving yards (979 yards). “I feel that we’re a real close group now. We have in the past, but I feel like they’re we’re closer now. It’s best because we’re all young, we’re all around the same age and we came in together.”

There are 16 wide receivers list on UCF’s preseason roster, including a mix of returnees, transfers and one true freshman.

One of those transfers is Brandon Johnson, who arrived in December after appearing in 32 games during his fives seasons at Tennessee. The 6-foot2, 195-pounder has quickly ingratiated himself to his new teammates.

“He’s always trying to teach us little things about the game that will help us,” said O’Keefe, who finished off a career year in 2020 with 391 yards receiving and 20 receptions. “When you need somebody, he’s always going to be there. He’s like a big brother, so it’s good to have him in.”

“Honestly, I just want to focus on my team in the best way that I can,” added Johnson, a sure-handed mark, who was targeted 31 times by the Volunteers last season. “The best blocking, special teams and catching as many balls as I can catch. I think if I can focus on trying to help my team, the rest will take care of itself.”

The unit also added transfers Jordan Johnson (Notre Dame) and Nate Craig-Myers (Colorado State) along with junior college products Kaedin Robinson (ASA College) and Jaylon Griffin (Kilgore C.C.).