In his first week of spring practice, new Memphis football coach Charles Huff has already spotted some standout players, especially among the influx of transfers on both sides of the ball.
The quarterback competition is heating up with Marcus Stokes, Air Noland, and Denzel Gardner all showing promising flashes. Huff is still in the early stages of evaluating his team, but he's already seen some players start to distinguish themselves with consistent performances. While the depth chart is far from finalized-spring practice runs until April 18, and summer offers more time for position battles-Huff's observations provide an early glimpse into the team’s dynamics.
Huff shared his philosophy on player development: "We aim for a 70 to 80% success rate in practice, with a 10 to 15% failure rate. This balance helps players grow by learning from mistakes without discouraging them from trying to improve."
Defense
On the defensive line, transfers J'Mond Tapp, Elijah Kinsler, Jaden McKinney from Southern Miss, J'Mari Monette from Indiana, and Joe Head Jr. from Mississippi State are making waves, along with returners Taylor Burton and Jacari Gatling.
At linebacker, Southern Miss transfer Mike Montgomery, alongside returners Wolf Walker and Tylon Nash, are being shuffled around to find their best fit.
In the secondary, Southern Miss transfers Ian Foster, Anthony Richard Jr., and Ahmere Foster have caught Huff's eye, as well as returner Chauncey Logan, Austin Peay transfer Ellis Ellis Jr., and Wofford transfer Darius Malcolm Jr.
Offense
The quarterback battle is intriguing, with Marcus Stokes, Air Noland, and Denzel Gardner each having moments that make you go, "Wow, big-time throw, big-time read," according to Huff. But consistency remains key, as each also has moments that prompt a double-take.
At running back, Huff highlighted Southern Miss transfer Jaylin Carter, Cincinnati transfer Manny Covey, Colorado transfer Dallan Hayden, and freshman Jordan Thompson. Though he didn't single out any tight ends, he noted that "three or four" have impressed so far.
In the wide receiver group, transfers Terrell Timmons from Colorado, Tychaun Chapman and Jermane Hayes from Southern Miss, Alante Brown from Michigan State, and Jemyri Davis from Kansas State are making a strong impression.
As spring practice progresses, it’s clear that Huff is focused on fostering a competitive environment to bring out the best in his players. With plenty of time left before the season, these early standouts will look to solidify their roles and make their mark on the Memphis program.