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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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Dec 26, 2016; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs head coach Dan Mullen reacts in the game against the Miami Redhawks during the first half at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2016; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs head coach Dan Mullen reacts in the game against the Miami Redhawks during the first half at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Willie Gay originally verbally committed to Ole Miss. In the end, he committed to stay in Starkville, where he went to high school. Among prep prospects, Gay is the best incoming freshman in 2017, a consensus four-star recruit.

Gay likely won’t earn a starting spot to begin the season but should earn reps in a reserve role and may work his way into a starting role by the end of the season. Gay is simply too talented for the coaching staff to not find creative ways to get him on the field.

The Bulldogs have strength at linebacker, including the second-leading tackler from the 2016 team, Leo Lewis. Gay finished his senior season in high school with 83 tackles.

Mississippi State head coach Dan Mullen described Gay as having size, speed and athleticism. Mississippi State finished 25th in the nation in recruiting according to 247Sports, and Gay is a big reason for the upward tick (the team was ranked 28th in 2016).

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