The roster situation has forced Seth Littrell and staff to make late additions to the team, here’s an update to the season preview. Learn a little bit more about guys who have made progress in fall camp and about others who are making an appearance in headlines recently.
Eric Jenkins – A great addition – and a recruiting win by this staff – Jenkins is a top 10, three star JUCO corner who could contribute quickly. Highly athletic, Jenkins has 4.4 speed and ball hawking ability. In his last season at LA Valley, he came down with 7 interceptions. He has good play recognition, and defends the screen game well. He uses his athleticism to recover quickly in man coverage, which may be a reason for all his interceptions. He was also effectively used in blitzes for LA Valley. If you thought defensive back was North Texas’ strongest unit before, then Jenkins is icing on the cake and the cherry on top.
Anthony Wyche – A relatively strong unit became even strong with the addition of Wyche. I expect Wyche to see plenty of touches this season, and could be the next man up if Wilson were to miss time. Brett Vito and other observers have noted how well Wyche has looked in practice, scoring long touchdown runs, catching touchdown passes, and running people over. He has a nose for the end zone, leading his conference in the SCFA in touchdowns. He is a good between-the-tackles runner with good vision, quick feet, is explosive through the hole, and a violent runner. His short area quickness and burst, and a penchant for the truck stick, should aid North Texas in short yardage situations.
Quentin Jackson – At 6’3”, 205 lbs, Jackson is a big receiver. He’s also got some wheels and great acceleration. After losses at the receiver position over the offseason, Jackson adds needed depth and speed on the outside. Given that he has just been cleared to join the team, it may be some weeks until he sees some game time. It wouldn’t be a surprise, however, to see him run some fades earlier on and pressure the defense deep.
Darius Turner – Turner played corner at Arizona Western. He is a large boundary corner, coming in at 6’1” 205, so he may get a look at safety. Reinforcing the DB depth is important, as the defense may be on the field a lot, if past Air Raid teams are any indication. Turner has good recovery and closing speed, and is physical along the boundary.
Spencer Edwards – There’s not a whole lot out there on this recent addition. Drafted in 2012 by the Rays, this former second round MLB prospect has purported “blazing speed” with 4.40 wheels. In 2010 he made 4A-District 10, 2nd team All-District as a receiver and returner. With his professional experience, he could provide guidance for the younger receivers. In addition to providing speed as a receiver, he could prove to be a helpful special teams player in the return game – a role that has needed a boost since Brelan Chancellor left.
