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SEC Football: 10 true freshmen who’ll have instant impact in 2017

By Erich Hilkert

Apr 22, 2017; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Najee Harris (22) is hit by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Mack Wilson (30) during the A-day game at Bryant Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2017; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Najee Harris (22) is hit by Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Mack Wilson (30) during the A-day game at Bryant Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 27, 2016; Loganville, GA, USA; IMG Academy quarterback Kellen Mond (11) runs against the Grayson Rams during the second half in a high school football duel of top ranked teams at Grayson Community Stadium. IMG Academy defeated the Grayson Rams 26-7. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 27, 2016; Loganville, GA, USA; IMG Academy quarterback Kellen Mond (11) runs against the Grayson Rams during the second half in a high school football duel of top ranked teams at Grayson Community Stadium. IMG Academy defeated the Grayson Rams 26-7. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

Kellen Mond could easily jump to the top of the list by the end of the season, but at this point, Mond is in a similar position to Jalen Hurts circa 2016.

Hurts faced competition from an upperclassman with experience and a highly touted redshirt freshman. Similarly, Mond is competing against redshirt freshman Nick Starkel and last season’s backup, rising senior Jake Hubanek.

There is a real chance the Texas A&M coaching staff goes with the most experienced option in Hubanek, but much like Hurts, there is a strong belief for some that Mond may emerge as the starter. He has many of the qualities necessary for the job, including athletic ability, composure and a strong arm. Hubanek would be the safe choice, but Mond has a much higher upside.

Mond makes some sense, too, when one considers offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone spent a great deal of time recruiting Mond. Mazzone inherited Hubanek.

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