ASU Football: Three takeaways from Maroon and Gold Practice

Life without N’Keal Harry – and a Standout Performer

Let’s face it – there is no way to replace N’Keal Harry. The 6-foot-4, 213-pound receiver was a special talent, and one team in the NFL is about to find that out next month.

But going forward, ASU’s corps must produce to ease the load for Eno Benjamin and the potential tension of the starting quarterback. Through Spring Practice, a few names that have stood out are Brandon Aiyuk, Kyle Williams, Darby, John Humphrey and Geordon Porter.

In 2018, Aiyuk, Williams and Darby combined for 1,344 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Each is an upperclassman, which should signal growth and a sense of leadership.

Humphrey was one of ASU’s most exciting transfers – a former Oklahoma player in 2015. However, adversity struck when the 5-foot-11 senior tore his Achilles last season, limiting any impact he could’ve brought.

Back competing with roommate Ryan Newsome, Humphrey’s talent may still give him a chance to make an impact in his last season.

Of all these names, Porter – a redshirt freshman from Rancho Cucamonga, California, – might have made the biggest impact in Spring Practice. He’s received reps on the first and second team throughout the month, and he performed well again on Thursday.

Along with his touchdown catch from Yellen (previous slide), Porter was able to beat Kobe Williams to the endzone, turn and catch a well-placed ball from Ethan Long during simulated play.

Of all positions, wide receiver is arguably the most important to refill, and coach Edwards recognized that.

“He (Porter) has got to be a good player for us,” he said. “He’s got the talent, he’s got some size, he’s got speed. It’s just confidence, it’s just playing more.”

More time on the field likely won’t build another Harry, but it should give the Sun Devils options to reload in an efficient manner.

All quotes in this article were obtained firsthand by Devils in Detail unless otherwise noted.