Big 12 Spotlight: Five players that broke out during spring football

Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.

Spring football is over so now it’s time to take a shot at who will take the momentum they gained and bring their game to the next level next season. Here are five from the Big 12.

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CLASS OF 2019 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | State | Position | Team

The skinny: As a true freshman, Barber already came into spring game with some hype. He responded by proving his game-breaking potential throughout the spring practices. Dynamic in the open field, the Frogs kept Barber busy by using him in the slot and coming out of the backfield. Look for the Frogs to find ways to get Barber, who scored a touchdown in the spring game, involved in the game early and often in 2018.

Farrell’s take: Barber was a four-star outside our Rivals250 and an athletic kid who could contribute in many ways so it’s not a surprise to see him impact early. He’s perfect for the TCU offense and should put up big numbers throughout his career. His ability to separate and his ball skills will make him a reliable target.

The skinny: While Collin Johnson is the unquestioned top receiver for the Longhorns, Humphry followed up a strong finish to the 2017 season with an even stronger spring. He also looks likely to take advantage of a new wrinkle in the Longhorns’ offense, as he had several rushing attempts in the practice sessions and even rushed for two touchdowns in the spring game, to go along with 100 yards receiving on seven grabs. So while the Longhorns didn’t finish the spring with any clearer situation at the quarterback position, whoever wins the job will have an improved weapon at his disposal.

Farrell’s take: Another former athlete in our database, Humphrey has found his home at wide receiver but can also do damage from the backfield. He had great size, could have easily flipped to the defensive side of the ball and been effective and is starting to step up and be a big weapon for the Horns. His size is key to the offense.

The skinny: The buzz about the early enrolled true freshman has been getting louder and louder throughout the spring. That culminated in a spring game performance that should have Sooner fans very excited with what Radley-Hiles will bring to the table this fall.

In a defensive struggle during harsh weather conditions, Radley-Hiles was all over the field in pass coverage, making open-field tackles and also blitzing the quarterback. Look for him to be used as a nickel back this fall, which should give him plenty of freedom to make plays. The sky seems to be the limit for this true freshman.

Farrell’s take: This is expected as we had “Bookie” as a five-star and an instant impact guy. His instincts on defense are off the charts, he just makes plays all the time and he loves to hit. I’ve compared him to Jamal Adams (smaller version) but he also has some Honey Badger in him. He’s going to be a star.

The skinny: The JUCO recruit has been patient since his arrival in Lubbock, but now his opportunity is within reach. Slot receivers tend to prosper in coach Kliff Kingsbury’s offense, so if his level of play during the spring says anything, Bowman has the potential to have a big season in 2018. Bowman, who caught two touchdown passes in the spring game, will also return kickoffs and punts as the Raiders figure out ways to get him the ball.

Farrell’s take: The former mid-level three star is reaching his potential as a guy who can do damage out of the slot and in the return game. He’s a great fit for the offense and should put up big numbers if he can prove to be a reliable target. We liked his fit at Texas Tech back in the 2016 class.

The skinny: The Mountaineers return a good amount of star power at wide receiver, mainly with David Sills and Gary Jennings, but in coach Dana Holgorsen’s open offense additional weapons are always welcome. Simmons, a transfer from Alabama who sat out the 2017 season, looks ready to take on a starting role at the position after impressing on the scout team last fall and then during the spring. After mainly seeing time on special teams during his one season with the Tide, Simmons will be eager to showcase his receiving skills in Morgantown.

Farrell’s take: The former four-star Alabama signee has always had the talent to dominate and now he’s in an offense that can take advantage of his abilities. He will help take the pressure off other receivers by adding another weapon in a dangerous offense and you know Will Grier will find him especially in the red zone where his leaping ability will be big.