Written by Amanda Pavelka (@amandapavelka3)

Spring football is right around the corner, which begs the question— who fill the gap left by last year’s seniors in each position? Between the Class of 2020 signees and last year’s freshman who took advantage of the redshirt rule, the 2020 IU football season looks bright.

Of the 21 freshman penned to Indiana’s 2019 recruiting class, 12 played in four games or fewer, and return to Bloomington a year bigger and stronger as they compete for field time beginning March 7.

Here are five redshirt freshman to watch in Spring 2020, considering the most recent injury update.

Jordan Jakes, WR

With the talented depth in the wide receivers room, Jakes was sidelined for every game in the 2019 season. Nick Westbrook and Donavan Hale’s departure from the program opens up a spot in the rotation for the 6-foot-5 Georgia native who moves notably well for a guy his height.

Larry Tracy III, DB

In his first season at IU, Tracy saw the field in one game, against Eastern Illinois on defense and special teams. Andre Brown left a gap in the corner rotation and Tracy has a solid chance at being that next man up. This will be Tracy’s second spring practice with the Hoosiers, so he knows what to expect and can focus on growth instead of adjustments from high school.

Gary Cooper, TE

Injuries held Cooper from his potential in his first year, but salvaged a year of eligibility thanks to the redshirt rule. The Miami, Florida native recorded 2 catches for 15 yards in four games. A standout for his versatility at the tight end position, Cooper is expected to give Hoosier offense a boost in the upcoming season.

Beau Robbins, DL

Robbins saw playing time in the Eastern Illinois and Purdue games in 2019. The Carmel, Indiana native adds depth to Indiana’s young defense, and at 6-5 and 250 pounds, will likely be in the rotation at strong-side defensive end.

Mike Katic, OL

With the depth on the offensive line, Katic did not see play time in the 2019 season. A season of development at the hands of Dr. Matt Rhea and David Ballou served him well last year, when he gained 22 pounds after joining the program in the spring. He will have one-up on the incoming freshman group of seven offensive lineman, and his versatility and experience at center and guard will likely earn him play time in his freshman season.

The Huddle

Indiana’s Top Five Redshirt Freshman for 2020 Spring Football

Hoosier Huddle