4. Can Trey Griffey fill the big-receiver/go-to guy role vacated by Cayleb Jones?
Griffey offered glimpses of his immense potential at the end of last season. His 95-yard catch-and-run touchdown against Arizona State in the regular-season finale might have been the Wildcats’ play of the year. He followed that up by catching two balls for 64 yards in the New Mexico Bowl.
With Jones (6-foot-3) and David Richards (6-4) no longer around, the 6-3, 209-pound Griffey is Arizona’s biggest returning receiver. The redshirt senior possesses the requisite tools to become a No. 1 receiver. But he still must prove he can handle that responsibility and stay healthy for a full season. Griffey missed six games last year and caught only 11 balls after snagging 31 the previous season.
“Trey has played a lot of football for us over the years. He’s a senior now. He’s earned everything he’s gotten,” receivers coach Tony Dews said. “He’s been great to coach. A humble kid. It was just unfortunate for him that he was slowed down by some injuries at the beginning of this past season. … I’m anxious to see him cut loose and go play.”
Arizona’s leading returning receivers are Nate Phillips (44 receptions) and Samajie Grant (31). Both primarily play out of the slot. Junior Cam Denson is moving from cornerback to receiver. He’ll play inside and outside, Rodriguez said.
