Miami Hurricanes’ Receivers Coach Dishes on Trader Breakout, Joseph-Toney Battle, and More
As the Miami Hurricanes continue their spring practices, one of the most intriguing position groups to watch is the wide receiver corps. With an influx of talent and young playmakers looking to make an impact, Miami’s wide receivers coach, Kevin Beard, has his hands full developing a group that could become one of the most explosive in the ACC.
From the rise of five-star freshman Joshisa “JoJo” Trader to the heated battle between Nathaniel “Ray Ray” Joseph and Robby Washington-Toney, there are plenty of storylines surrounding Miami’s receivers. In a recent media session, Beard broke down Trader’s early emergence, the ongoing competition among returning players, and the overall state of the receiver room heading into the 2024 season.
In this deep dive, we’ll examine the key takeaways from Coach Beard’s insights, analyzing the depth, talent, and expectations for Miami’s wide receiver group this year.
Trader’s Breakout: The Five-Star Freshman Turning Heads
One of the biggest talking points this spring has been the immediate impact of true freshman Joshisa “JoJo” Trader. The five-star recruit out of Chaminade-Madonna Prep (Hollywood, FL) came to Miami with sky-high expectations, and according to Coach Beard, he’s already exceeding them.
What Makes Trader Special?
At 6-foot-1, 180 pounds, Trader brings a rare combination of:
- Elite route-running ability
- Explosiveness after the catch
- Great hands and body control
- Football IQ and natural instincts
Beard emphasized that Trader’s ability to pick up the offense quickly has allowed him to earn valuable reps with the first-team offense. Unlike many freshmen who struggle with the mental side of the game, Trader has seamlessly adjusted to Miami’s up-tempo offense.
“JoJo is the type of player that just gets it,” Beard said. “He’s always in the right spot, understands leverage, and knows how to create separation. He’s been a sponge, picking up concepts faster than we expected.”
Trader’s Chemistry with the Quarterbacks
A huge advantage for Trader is his chemistry with Miami’s quarterbacks, particularly Emory Williams and Jacurri Brown. Both QBs have spoken highly of his ability to adjust to throws, make tough catches, and create explosive plays downfield.
In Miami’s latest spring scrimmage, Trader had a standout performance, catching multiple passes and breaking off a 40-yard touchdown reception, showcasing his speed and elusiveness in the open field.
Can Trader Start as a Freshman?
Given his current trajectory, it wouldn’t be surprising if Trader earned a starting role by the time Miami kicks off its season. With Xavier Restrepo solidified in the slot, there’s an opening for another dynamic playmaker on the outside.
Joseph vs. Toney: A Heated Battle in the Slot
While Trader’s breakout is grabbing headlines, another major storyline is the battle between Nathaniel “Ray Ray” Joseph and Robby Washington-Toney for playing time in the slot.
Both players are speedy, explosive playmakers who can make defenders miss in the open field. The competition between them has been one of the most intense battles in spring camp, with both players pushing each other every day.
Nathaniel “Ray Ray” Joseph: A Shifty Playmaker
Joseph, a former four-star recruit, flashed potential as a true freshman in 2023, showing glimpses of his elite speed and quickness. He has been working on:
- Becoming a more polished route-runner
- Improving his ability to read defenses
- Adding strength to handle physical defenders
Beard highlighted Joseph’s growth and work ethic, saying:
“Ray Ray is electric with the ball in his hands. He’s worked hard on his technique, and it’s showing. His ability to turn short catches into big gains is something special.”
In a recent practice session, Joseph took a screen pass 60 yards for a touchdown, showing off his ability to make plays after the catch.
Robby Washington-Toney: A Rising Star
On the other side of the battle is Robby Washington-Toney, another young receiver who has been making waves in camp. Toney possesses:
- Elite speed (4.3 range in the 40-yard dash)
- Great hands and ball-tracking ability
- Versatility to play both outside and in the slot
Beard noted that Toney’s growth as a route-runner has been one of the biggest improvements this offseason. He’s been working on his timing and footwork, making him a more reliable target in third-down situations.
Toney had a strong showing in Miami’s second spring scrimmage, catching a deep touchdown pass and making multiple key receptions in traffic.
Who Wins the Slot Battle?
While Restrepo is the primary slot receiver, Miami will use multiple players in that role throughout the season. Given their speed and ability to stretch the field, both Joseph and Toney will have opportunities to make plays.
Coach Beard stressed that the battle is far from over, and both players are expected to see significant snaps in the fall rotation.
Other Wide Receivers Stepping Up in Spring Camp
While Trader, Joseph, and Toney have been getting most of the attention, several other receivers are making strong impressions in practice.
1. Xavier Restrepo: The Leader of the Group
Miami’s most experienced receiver, Restrepo is the heart and soul of the unit. He led the team in receptions last season and continues to be a reliable target for Miami’s quarterbacks.
Beard called Restrepo “the ultimate competitor,” noting that his leadership is setting the standard for the younger players.
2. Colbie Young: A Physical Outside Threat
At 6-foot-5, 215 pounds, Young is Miami’s biggest target and a potential red-zone weapon. He has been working on:
- Improving his release off the line
- Becoming more consistent in contested-catch situations
- Expanding his route tree
Young has had some dominant moments in practice, using his size to box out defenders and make tough grabs.
3. Isaiah Horton: The Sleeper Pick
A player that has been generating buzz is Isaiah Horton, a former four-star recruit who is finally starting to put it all together. Horton has been one of the most consistent performers in practice, making tough catches and showing off improved footwork in his routes.
How Miami’s Wide Receiver Group Stacks Up for 2024
With a strong mix of veterans, young playmakers, and incoming talent, Miami’s wide receiver unit has the potential to be one of the best in the ACC.
Projected Wide Receiver Depth Chart for 2024
| Position | Player | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| WR1 (X) | Colbie Young | Physical, contested-catch specialist |
| WR2 (Z) | Joshisa Trader | Breakout freshman, elite route-runner |
| Slot (Y) | Xavier Restrepo | Most experienced, reliable target |
| WR4 | Ray Ray Joseph | Speedster, potential game-breaker |
| WR5 | Robby Washington-Toney | Deep-threat, improved route-runner |
| WR6 | Isaiah Horton | Sleeper, physical presence |
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