See the first three 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 a statement:
QB Sam Leavitt (Arizona State)
The skinny: To nobody’s surprise, Sam Leavitt was named the starter at Arizona State yesterday after outperforming Jeff Sims during the offseason. Since his arrival from Michigan State during the winter, Leavitt has impressed with his potential and work ethic. The Sun Devils are in the midst of a rebuilding project, so Leavitt’s maturation and continued improvement during the 2024 season will go a long way in bringing some excitement back to Tempe.
TE Ethan Davis (Tennessee)
The skinny: The Vols have had several redshirt freshmen shine during the offseason, with Ethan Davis being at the top of the list. Known as an elite pass catcher since his arrival in Knoxville, Davis bulked up 15 pounds since the conclusion of the 2023 season to better prepare himself to play a bigger role in 2024. And having already established a strong connection with fellow redshirt freshman quarterback Nico Iamaleava, expect his role to continue to expand throughout this season.
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DL Kendrick Gilbert (Kentucky)
The skinny: The Kentucky defensive line will be dominated by Deone Walker, a likely All-American. However, the Wildcats have identified a younger talent during the summer that is creating a lot of buzz in Lexington. Kendrick Gilbert played in only two games last season and underwent shoulder surgery in the off-season but has still shined this summer. Likely lining up at nose guard in 2024, his quickness and agility will make him a name to remember for college football fans.
DL Jayden Cofield (Texas Tech)
The skinny: With two longtime starters gone at defensive tackle, Texas Tech knew that they had to find some replacements. Luckily for them, Jayden Gilbert has been a standout throughout summer camp. While there are several older players available at the position, there isn’t much returning experience. And Gilbert has grabbed this opportunity as he will firmly be in the rotation at the start of the season.
OL Soane Faasolo (Washington)
The skinny: The Huskies have a few other redshirt freshmen who will likely make an impact this season (CB Leroy Bryant/OG Kahlee Tafai) but Faasalo looks the most prepared to shine. Washington has been pretty quiet about their depth chart, but Faasalo has been repeatedly running with the first team through the first three weeks of summer camp so expectations are that he will be an opening day starter. At 6-foot-8 and 295-pounds, Faasalo has the potential to become special during his time in Seattle.
