Tyler Morris may not consider himself old, but he acknowledges his role as a veteran within the Michigan football wide receiver group. With Roman Wilson and Cornelius Johnson no longer in the picture, the returning receivers lack proven experience.
However, Morris views this as an opportunity rather than a setback. As Michigan navigates through spring practices and likely into the fall, determining their quarterback situation, there are uncertainties surrounding the receiving corps. Nonetheless, Morris, entering his junior year, is poised to play a prominent role and is expected to feature prominently on the depth chart.
The 5-foot-11, 185-pound Morris is eagerly anticipating an expanded role and the added responsibilities that come with it. He has taken on a leadership role within his position group, providing guidance and mentorship to rising sophomores Semaj Morgan and Fredrick Moore.
Despite Morgan’s notable contributions last season with 22 catches and two touchdowns, Morris has encouraged him to strive for more. Similarly, Morris has set high standards for himself as well.
With the departures of Wilson and Johnson, who were Michigan’s most prolific receivers last season, there’s a significant void to fill in terms of production. While tight end Colston Loveland remains, there remains a considerable amount of productivity to replace.
Alongside Morris, Moore, and Morgan, rising senior Peyton O’Leary, who has accumulated three career receptions, is also expected to step up. Morris emphasized that each of them will need to elevate their performance this year to meet the team’s expectations.
As a sophomore last season, Morris made 13 catches for 197 yards and returned nine punts for Michigan. His most memorable moment came during a playoff semifinal against Alabama at the Rose Bowl, where he made a remarkable touchdown catch late in the first half.
Catching a pass on third-and-10 near the Alabama sideline, Morris skillfully stayed in bounds, twisted, and lunged for a touchdown, breaking a tie and ultimately contributing to Michigan’s victory.
The majority of Morris’ receptions at Michigan were thrown by J.J. McCarthy, his former high school teammate from Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park, Illinois.
With McCarthy now preparing for the NFL draft, Michigan’s quarterback situation remains uncertain, with the competition likely extending into fall camp.
Michigan’s offense and team dynamics have undergone significant changes, including the appointment of Sherrone Moore as head coach and Kirk Campbell as offensive coordinator, alongside several new coaches and players. Amidst these changes, Morris acknowledges that there’s still much to figure out, especially within the receiver group.
With dependable targets like Johnson and Wilson no longer in the lineup, Morris recognizes the need for someone to step up. He views this season as an opportunity for him and his fellow receivers to showcase their abilities. Additionally, Morris has been versatile in his role, practicing both at slot and outside receiver positions during the spring.
Michigan’s offensive approach could see adjustments this season, aiming for a more balanced attack. With running back Blake Corum and several offensive linemen gone, the receiving corps, including Morris, will play a crucial role in achieving this balance.
