Although Iowa State added a sure-fire top target in Arkansas-transfer La’Michael Pettway, there’s plenty of opportunity for young receivers such as Joseph Scates to join the rotation.
Projected to start are Deshaunte Jones, who finished second on the team in receiving last season behind Hakeem Butler, as well as sophomore Tarique Milton and junior Landen Akers. Pettway should earn plenty of looks as well as he brings experience and proven ability, but Scates is one of the most purely talented wide outs on the roster.
According to head coach Matt Campbell, per the Des Moines Register, Scates is one of the best receivers, in terms of talent, he’s had in Ames.
"The Cyclones have high hopes for redshirt freshmen Joseph Scates and Sean Shaw Jr. Campbell said Scates “is as talented as any receiver we’ve had”"
That’s high praise considering Butler has played for Campbell as well as Allen Lazard who were two of the best wide outs in the nation. This kid is making moves up the depth chart and he’ll be a force to be reckoned with.