As more and more preseason award watch lists are coming out, WVU can add another name to the list of candidates. Sophomore wide receiver Jordan Thompson has been named to the Biletnikoff Award preseason watch list for the 2013 season.
The Biletnikoff Award is given to the nation’s best wide receiver. Last season, WVU receiver Stedman Bailey was the runner-up in the award. Despite only catching 13 passes for 85 yards last season, Thompson’s name was listed along with ten other players from the Big 12 conference.
Thompson, who’s nickname is “Squirt” stands only 5’7″ and 168 pounds. That’s not the typical wide receiver size in the NCAA for this award, but a guy that size at West Virginia isn’t uncommon. The past two seasons, Thompson has made a name for himself by being a spring standout. Last season as a freshman that success didn’t translate very well on the field. Thompson had trouble transitioning to the game, especially with blocking. After learning from talented receivers like Bailey, Tavon Austin, and JD Woods, who are all now on NFL rosters, Thompson’s freshman season could be labeled as a learning season.
Now, with four of WVU’s top receivers gone when you add the loss of Ryan Nehlen, Thompson has a chance to step up. This past spring, Thompson racked up 123 yards and 3 touchdowns in the annual spring game. Head coach Dana Holgorsen joked after the game that Thompson was the “greatest spring player of all time,” alluding to Thompson’s lackluster performance during the regular season.
Even if the head coaches at WVU don’t want to openly admit that Thompson is going to be a big part of this offense, the powers that be have seen enough potential in him to add his name to the Biletnikoff list.
