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The Notre Dame Fighting Irish might be losing Will Fuller to the NFL this spring, but they are seeing the emergence of their next No.1 receiver. Torii Hunter Jr. has opened eyes so far this spring, capping it off with a spectacular one-handed, 50-yard grab from quarterback Malik Zaire during the Blue-Gold Game.
Hunter Jr. is a two-sport athlete at Notre Dame, starring on the baseball team at the same time he is trying to get ready for football. It is obvious to anyone who has seen Hunter Jr. this spring that he is taking the chance to become the Fighting Irish’s next star receiver seriously.
No returning wide receiver has more catches than Hunter Jr., who hauled in 28 passes last year for 363 yards and two touchdowns. He was limited last year due to a nagging injury to his groin. However, Hunter Jr. is entering 2016 fully healthy and ready to take the next step. He has already earned high praise from head coach Brian Kelly, who commended Hunter Jr.’s commitment despite being in the middle of baseball season. He could have easily bowed out, but he didn’t.
Notre Dame’s offense is undergoing a bit of a facelift. Fuller and starting running back C.J. Prosise are gone. Zaire is pushing DeShone Kizer for the starting quarterback job. The Irish shouldn’t miss a beat, though. They have the talent and Hunter Jr. should emerge as one of the most thrilling receivers Notre Dame has had in years.
Perhaps the biggest element Hunter Jr. brings to the game is his versatility. He can line up anywhere on the field and has even taken snaps as a nickel corner on defense.
Being the go-to guy will be something Hunter Jr. will have to get used to. There are sure to be growing pains. However, his athleticism and his work ethic will help him overcome any shortcomings he encounters. Notre Dame’s passing game is in good hands with Hunter Jr. in 2016.
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