Tech freshman Adonicas Sanders ‘popping eyes’ thus far
Through four preseason practices, Georgia Tech freshman wide receiver Adonicas Sanders has caught the notice of coach Paul Johnson.
From North Charleston, S.C., Sanders was one of the last players added to the Yellow Jackets’ 2017 signing class. Sanders reportedly was planning to sign with Presbyterian before Tech came in with a scholarship offer just before national signing day.
Sanders “has done some good things,” Johnson said after the team’s practice Monday, the fourth of the preseason. Johnson mentioned him in response to a question about two redshirt freshman wide receivers, Stephen Dolphus and Jair Hawkins-Anderson.
Quarterback Matthew Jordan has noticed Sanders, too.
Jordan said that he has thrown to him in drills only once or twice, “but from watching him go, he’s definitely popping eyes, for sure.”
Jordan noted his speed and ability to make plays on deep balls.
“I think (Monday) during one one-on-ones, he caught an OBJ-type one-handed catch,” Jordan said.
“OBJ” is New York Giants star Odell Beckham Jr., who has gained renown for his acrobatic one-handed catches.
Sanders will have much to prove through the remainder of the preseason. The depth chart at wide receiver begins with starters Ricky Jeune and Brad Stewart at the top, followed by Jalen Camp, Antonio Messick, Dolphus and Hawkins-Anderson. But a comparison to a three-time Pro Bowler is not a bad way to start.
About the Author
Ken Sugiura is a sports columnist at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Formerly the Georgia Tech beat reporter, Sugiura started at the AJC in 1998 and has covered a variety of beats, mostly within sports.
