ACC Football: Most impactful newcomers for each team

Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Micah Mays, Wide Receiver: Receptions are up for grabs with A.T. Perry gone to the NFL. Incoming freshman Micah Mays will have an opportunity to get some of those receptions. Wake Forest’s slow mesh offense requires an explosive receiver to throw the football down the field.

Mays is an explosive athlete in space, though he is still raw as a route runner. His height (6-foot-2) makes him a threat in the red zone and a 50/50 ball receiver. Some veterans are before him, but he’ll make a play for snaps.

Bryce Ganious, Defensive Tackle: Villanova transfer Bryce Ganious gives the Demon Deacons size on the interior of their defensive line and versatility. He can play on the interior or kick out to the defensive end. The Demon Deacons lacked depth on its line’s interior, and Ganious gives them that.

Walker Merrill, Wide Receiver: Tennessee Volunteers transfer Walker Merrill gives Wake Forest added receiver depth at the slot receiver. Merrill can play outside, but his strength is the slot. He’s a polished route runner with great hands.

Merrill did battle some injury issues while at Knoxville, but he could be an asset for the Deacons if he can stay healthy this fall.