The University of Wyoming’s football program reviewed the progress of its wide receivers following the team’s spring game, according to a May 5 announcement. Head coach Jay Sawvel challenged the group to step up as the team searches for its next standout player at the position.
The review comes as Wyoming looks to continue its tradition of producing top-performing wide receivers. Past players such as Marcus Harris, Ryan Yarborough, Jovon Bouknight, and Tanner Gentry each recorded notable seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards. The current roster is aiming to replicate that success in upcoming games.
During the spring game at War Memorial Stadium, Eric Richardson caught six passes for 55 yards and Jackson Holman scored on a 47-yard touchdown reception. Holman said after his play: “That’s probably the best feeling in all of football, catching a go ball mid-stride for a touchdown. I don’t think anything beats it, really.” Quarterback Tyler Hughes also praised Richardson’s improvement since transferring from Northwest Missouri State: “The day I got here we got to the field, me and him, and he keeps getting better every single day… he has been taking the playbook and every single rep that he’s had very seriously, and it showed (in the spring game).”
Sawvel emphasized his expectations for greater contributions from this year’s receiver group: “I think we need to see that receiver group step forward and play.” He added about competition at other positions: “I want to be able to go out and look at and say, we’re winning at that position… there’s going to be certain ways people played us a year ago that they’ll have no chance of doing to us this year because of the mobility of the quarterbacks and all of the different things we’re doing.”
Other players mentioned include Deion DeBlanc, Charlie Coenen, Bricen Brantley—who are working toward consistency—and Ke’Lyn Washom who is seeking more playing time after being disciplined last season. New additions Justin Popovich from Lock Haven University and freshman Jayden Williams are also expected to add depth.
Holman described feeling more confident heading into this season: “I feel a lot more confident, a lot more familiar with this space… I feel like it’s a great opportunity for everybody.” The evaluation is part of an ongoing series reviewing each position group ahead of next season.
