James Mitchell

A season ago, Virginia Tech tight ends hauled in 42 passes for 601 yards and seven touchdowns, while sneakily adding 17 rushing attempts and five scores. That production was split between Mitchell and Dalton Keene, who is now a member of the New England Patriots. The Hokies also lost WR Damon Hazelton and his eight touchdown grabs, which seems to set Mitchell up for ample scoring opportunities at a minimum. Watching this offense operate, it's hard not to notice the play calling not putting faith in quarterback Hendon Hooker, with misdirections and dump offs the normal, while pushing the ball downfield seems to come only from necessity. Hooker's potential growth, or a forced switch to Oregon transfer Braxton Burmeister could possibly be to Mitchell's detriment. But as it currently sits, Mitchell is no worse than the 1a passing game option to WR Tre Turner's 1, and while he may be touchdown dependent, the coaching staff has proven creative in getting the ball in Mitchell's hands. 50 touches and six scores are well within reach.