ASU Football: Jefferson Making His Stand

For the ASU Football team, every player is trying to put their best foot forward and make a case for cracking the starting line-up.  That’s what spring ball is all about.

One player whose recent efforts have been well-documented is freshman wide receiver Ellis Jefferson.  Jefferson, a Denton Texas native, red-shirted last year to develop, learn the system and get physically stronger.  It shows. 

At 6’4″ with decent speed and good hands, Jefferson fits the mold of the prototype wide receiver that offensive coordinators covet.  While he is still young and has plenty to learn when it comes to running routes, reading coverages and stalk blocking, there is no doubt that Jefferson is extremely talented and has a lot of upside.

That’s why it is very apparent that the coaching staff is giving him a long look with the first and second group.  Right now, returning WR Jaelon Strong has locked up one receiver position.  Strong will usually play out wide in any formation or set.  Offensive coordinator Mike Norvelle is probably looking for another receiver to do the same on the opposite side of Strong.  That could be Jefferson.

With the impending arrival of highly touted JUCO receiver, Eric Lauderdale, Jefferson’s window of opportunity to step up front and center will soon be closed.  It’s not a given that Lauderdale will move right into the starting rotation.  No one really knows what will happen with him.  In reality, Lauderdale will probably move towards the front of the line, putting Jefferson, Lewis, and the rest of the receiver corps on notice.

For now, the coaches clearly like Jefferson and want to see him have a big role with this offense.  Time will tell if he is ready or not.