FSU's Malik Benson is embracing the number-one receiver role
![Apr 20, 2024; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles wide receiver Malik Benson (10) runs with the ball during the Spring Showcase at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports Apr 20, 2024; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles wide receiver Malik Benson (10) runs with the ball during the Spring Showcase at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_4404,h_2477,x_0,y_0/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/ImagnImages/mmsport/270/01j4t9m1d880h4dv32z4.jpg)
The Florida State wide receiver room has to be overhauled this offseason after the talented big-bodied options such as Keon Coleman and Johnny Wilson navigated to the NFL. As a result, the Seminoles added Alabama's Malik Benson and LSU's Jalen Brown via the transfer portal.
Wide receivers coach Ron Dugans was asked after Thursday's practice in Jacksonville, Florida if Malik Benson was embracing the number-one receiver role, he responded by saying the following:
"I would say yes to that. We have been challenging him to step up in that role. He's embraced it. He's done a good job. Over the last few days, I have been pleased with his effort and the things that he has been doing."
I realize that it is a ton of pressure to put on Benson after he recorded 13 receptions for 162 yards and one touchdown during the 2023 season for the Crimson Tide. However, the Seminoles' wide receiver rotation has a ton of players who do not have a ton of experience.
The Alabama transfer has been the most consistent in spring, summer, and now fall camp. The Florida State offense will be centered around the idea of running the football with its stable of running backs. This will allow the strong arm of transfer quarterback DJ Uiagalelei to be unleashed where he can showcase his strength.
This is the time for Benson to shine. He doesn't have a 96-speed rating in the College Football 25 video game for no reason. This could be a viable vertical threat for Florida State's offense. While I am not saying that he will be a 1,000-yard receiver for the Seminoles in 2024, I do not think that 600 yards is out of the question for an offense that should be able to spread the football around to its playmakers.
dark. Next. Could true freshman WR Elijah Moore contribute meaningful snaps in Year 1?. Could true freshman WR Elijah Moore contribute meaningful snaps in Year 1?