Toledo, OH - Lost, perhaps, by Rocket fans anticipating that their team will feature a powerful rushing offense, is a Toledo receiving corps that should be a considerable force of tis own in 2016.

Senior Corey Jones and junior Cody Thompson form deadly combination at wide receiver, while senior Michael Roberts provides UT with a big target at tight end. The key to the UT receivers in 2016 could their versatility. "Our receivers have a lot of potential," said Jones. "We have multiple guys who can play different roles."

Jones' role has been well-established in his collegiate career. He is a prototypical slot receiver with the speed and quickness to create nightmares for opposing defenses. Jones has grabbed 123 passes, including 10 TD passes, in the past two seasons. Head coach Jason Candle expects even more from his senior this fall. "Corey Jones is a game-changer on offense and as a return man. He's had a tremendous career here and we're looking for a big senior year from him," said Candle

Thompson is more of a big-play receiver who had a break-out season in 2015, pulling in 37 passes for 825 yards and five scores. He averaged 22.3 yards per catch, which was the third-best mark in the country. Again, Candle wants even more from Thompson this season. "Cody needs to take his game to another level now," said Candle. "He'll be on the radar of every defense we play. It's going to be fun to see how he handles that. He's a tremendous leader with a great work ethic."

Other wide receivers the Rockets are counting on are senior Zach Yousey, junior Darryl Richards and sophomore Jon'Vea Johnson. Preseason injuries to sophomores Diontae Johnson and Andrew Davis means that Candle may need some freshmen to step up, as well.

At tight end, the Rockets are counting on the 6-4, 265-pound Roberts to pave the way. Already a good blocker, Roberts broke out with 21 receptions and four touchdown receptions while splitting time with Alex Zmolik in 2015.  Roberts figures to be an even bigger part of the offense this season.  Senior Adam Kulon is also expected to play a role at tight end this season.


Michael Roberts (80) is the leader of the Rocket tight ends.