The Texas Tech football team seems to have moved away from its tradition of relying on quick slot receivers to dominate defenses. While the Red Raiders still utilize inside receivers in their three- and four-wide formations, none have matched the impact of legendary players like Wes Welker, Eric Morris, Danny Amendola, Jakeem Grant, and Keke Coutee. These sub-six-foot athletes delivered outstanding performances during their time.
The shift hasn’t been intentional, though. It’s more a result of challenges in recruiting top talent in this category, especially as the program faced a decline in the 2010s. This year marks a particularly noticeable change. Head coach Joey McGuire isn’t opposed to speedy slot players, but the team’s current leading pass catchers are shaping up to be larger athletes: Caleb Douglas at 6-foot-4, Coy Eakin at 6-foot-2, and Reggie Virgil, standing 6-foot-3. Douglas and Eakin return as starters, while Virgil joins as a transfer.
Although none of these players fit the classic slot receiver mold, the Tech coaches aren’t worried. Their strategy now focuses on winning through size. “The first group, you’re big,” McGuire remarked. “That’s a big group.”
This fresh direction is something the new offensive coordinator, Mack Leftwich, inherited when he joined McGuire’s staff. He notes that it’s not just about their height; their vertical speed is impressive, allowing them to challenge defenses successfully. Leftwich, who is used to working with shifty slot receivers, finds this an exciting opportunity. The ability to win 50-50 balls and create plays in one-on-one situations is an advantage they plan to leverage, especially in the red zone.
Last season, Douglas racked up 60 catches for 877 yards and six touchdowns. Eakin had 49 catches for 652 yards and seven touchdowns. Virgil was also productive at Miami (Ohio), making 41 catches for 816 yards and nine touchdowns, earning second-team all-Mid-American Conference honors. With Eakin shifting inside, he fills the spot vacated by Josh Kelly, last year’s receiving leader.
The tight end position remains crucial for the Red Raiders, with experienced players like senior Johncarlos Miller and newcomer junior Terrance Carter Jr. in the mix. Junior Jason Llewellyn adds depth as well. In 2024, Miller caught 10 passes for 122 yards and three touchdowns, while Carter impressed at Louisiana-Lafayette with 48 catches for 689 yards and four touchdowns.
Leftwich is optimistic about the potential of these tight ends. “Carter has the chance to be a really dynamic receiver,” he said. “And JC [Miller] can do it all—block and catch. Alongside Jason Llewellyn, who’s a strong blocker in the run game, we have a solid lineup.” After losing Jalin Conyers and Mason Tharp, this group is set to maintain the position’s productivity.
Despite the changes, Leftwich is confident in the team’s direction. “I feel good about that room,” he concluded, highlighting the promising development of the new and returning players.
