See the first four parts of the series:
https://mikefarrellsports.com/college/redshirt-freshmen-to-watch-part-1
https://mikefarrellsports.com/college/redshirt-freshmen-to-watch-part-2
With the 2024 college football season quickly approaching, here is a closer look at five redshirt freshmen who will make an impact:
OL Anthony Donkoh (Penn State)
The skinny: Anthony Donkoh is one of two redshirt offensive linemen, along with J’ven Williams, who should play a big role this season. However, it is Donkoh who looks poised to make the bigger immediate impact. After starting off at guard, he is currently in a battle with transfer Nolan Rucci for a starting tackle spot. Considered the favorite to win the job, Donkoh will prove to be invaluable no matter the outcome of his battle with Rucci, as he has already proven that his versatility will be pivotal.
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WR Jalen Brown (Florida State)
The skinny: Florida State missed out on Jalen Brown out of high school, so when he entered the portal after one season at LSU they quickly jumped at the opportunity to add him. And the Seminoles have not been disappointed. One of the top performers during summer camp, Brown was listed as a starter on Florida State’s first depth chart of the season as the Seminoles prepare to play Georgia Tech on Saturday in Ireland.
RB DeSean Bishop (Tennessee)
The skinny: DeSean Bishop is the third Vols’ redshirt freshman listed in this series, but he is also different as he was a preferred walk-on at Tennessee after starring at a local high school. Now he is fighting for playing time behind starter Dylan Sampson. His performance during the spring and summer continues to grab attention and with the Vols’ backfield dealing with some injuries, Bishop is very likely to receive an opportunity to make an impact in 2024.
OL Caleb Lomu (Utah)
The skinny: After playing in three games during the 2023 season, Caleb Lomu looks ready to become an integral part of the Utes offensive line in 2024. The likely starter at left tackle, Lomu possesses a unique combination of size (6-foot-5, 295-pounds) and athleticism that has impressed everyone within the program since his arrival on campus last year. Now he will have to prove to everyone that he is ready to contribute.
OL Rhino Tapa’atoutai (Arizona)
The skinny: Rhino Tapa’atoutai has made the most of an opportunity which will likely result in him being the starter at left tackle. Last year’s starter Jordan Morgan was drafted in the first round by Green Bay, while the presumed next man up, Raymond Pulido, will miss the season for “undisclosed reasons”. Tapa’atoutai then received his opportunity and shined. And he must continue to do so for the Wildcats to reach expectations, as he will be responsible for protecting star quarterback Noah Fifita’s blindside.
