Fall Camp Preview: Five players looking to step up this year

Apr 12, 2014; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles wide receiver Jarred Haggins (12) stiff arms cornerback Marquez White (27) during the spring game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

Jarred “Scooter” Haggins, Rs Sr, WR

In the discussion regarding who will replace the production lost with the departures of Kenny Shaw and Kelvin Benjamin, fans are quick to mention two talented incoming freshmen, Ermon Lane and Travis Rudolph, but redshirt senior Jarred Haggins is often left out of the conversation completely. Don’t sleep on Haggins.

‘Scooter’ seemed like he would factor heavily into Florida State’s offensive plans last year before a knee injury derailed his season. This year, Haggins is healthy and has added some muscle to his frame. Working from the slot, Haggins should offer Jameis Winston a consistent veteran presence to look for.

He’s also likely to have an edge over some of the younger receivers when it comes to some of the less sexy parts of the position — namely blocking. Lawrence Dawsey’s receivers don’t play until they can block. And frankly, as much as the yards and touchdowns put up by Shaw and Benjamin will be missed, it will be their blocking that could be the hardest to replace. Both receivers were willing to get their hands dirty — Shaw, in particular was one of the most underrated blockers to come through FSU in a long time. If Haggins can stay healthy, his familiarity with the offense, his strength and his willingness to put a lid on someone should help him play a prominent role in FSU’s 2014 passing attack.