Penn State Football: Nittany Lions two-deep depth chart projection

Wide Receiver

Starting receivers: Juwan Johnson, DeAndre Thompkins , Brandon Polk
Backups: KJ Hamler, Mac Hippenhammer, Cam Sullivan-Brown, Justin Shorter

The Lions lost DaeSean Hamilton, the program’s all-time leader in receptions. While it is a big loss, James Franklin has been stocking receivers with plenty of talent.

Juwan Johnson is ready to be Trace McSorley’s number one target. Last season he hauled in 54 passes for 701 yards and a score, which happened to be the game-winner at Iowa on the last play of the game. The other unquestioned starter is senior DeAndre Thompkins. He has been a talented return man but also had 443 yards on 28 receptions and three touchdowns last season. Thompkins should have the best season of his career.

Replacing Hamilton’s former role in the slot will probably be Brandon Polk. The redshirt junior is being challenged for the starting role by KJ Hamler and Mac Hippenhammer, but ultimately he should earn the spot based on his experience. Finally, keep an eye on Justin Shorter. He was the top receiver in the country in the 2018 class and is too talented to be standing on the sidelines this fall.

Tight End

Starter: Jonathan Holland

Backups: Nick Bowers, Danny Dalton

The loss of Saquon Barkley is the most talked about departure for the Lions, however, Mike Gesicki was a staple at the tight end position the last two years and is a huge loss. Replacing him is no easy task and there is not a whole lot of experience returning.

Jonathan Holland and Nick Bowers have four career receptions combined, although Bowers lone catch was a 15-yard touchdown against Nebraska last season. Bowers has a history of injuries, so Holland gets the nod as the starter although both should get reps. Danny Dalton had a lot of reps in the spring and might see some playing time this fall.