As football season is now just two days away, I'm closing out the Freshman 15 – my annual countdown of the top 15 true freshmen to watch at the start of the season. Here’s Nos. 4-6.
Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.
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FRESHMAN 15: Nos. 13-15 | 10-12 | 7-9
FARRELL 50: Countdown of top CFB players begins with Nos. 46-50 | 41-45 | 36-40 | 31-35 | 26-30 | 21-25 | 16-20 | 11-15 | 6-10 | 1-5
CLASS OF 2022 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Position | Team | State
CLASS OF 2023 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Position | Team | State
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RIVALS CAMP SERIES: Info/coverage on 2021 camp series
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6. WR Mario Williams, Oklahoma
The skinny: There is no lack of wide receiver talent in Norman, but Williams’ performance throughout the spring and during the spring game when he had five receptions for 84 yards has firmly placed him on the depth chart. And possessing game-breaking abilities and great hands, he has already established an impressive relationship with Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback Spencer Rattler.
Farrell’s take: Williams has already shown his ball skills at Oklahoma that made him a five-star prospect. He’s very hard to cover and will be an instant favorite for Rattler.
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5. DB Kalen King, Penn State
The skinny: When coach James Franklin proclaimed that King was the most advanced freshman he had seen since his arrival in Happy Valley, everyone quickly took notice. King followed that up by grabbing two interceptions, returning one for a touchdown, during the Penn State spring game. Cornerback was already considered one of the strengths of the Nittany Lions' defense, so the pecking order for playing time still needs to be established, but you can be sure that King will be seeing plenty of the field this fall.
Farrell’s take: King has shown maturity and skill as advancement beyond his years and has been impressive since day one in making the right reads and coming up in the run.
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4. RB TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State
The skinny: While Master Teague is regarded as the early season starter in Columbus, the expectation is that he will be seriously pushed for playing time by several young talents immediately. And while Miyan Williams, Marcus Crowley and fellow true freshman Evan Pryor all have the potential to excel, it is Henderson who is the best equipped to take advantage of this opportunity.
Farrell’s take: Henderson is in a crowded backfield but he has the speed and ability to impact early and potentially play a Curtis Samuel role as he has very good receiving skills as well.
