James Heard Jr. is Going to be a 'Really Good' Pass Rusher for WVU
Neal Brown has already stressed the importance of Abilene Christian transfer Tyrin Bradley "pushing" Jared Bartlett at the bandit position. Bartlett is their guy, but they need a second pass rusher to emerge.
True freshman James Heard Jr. (6'2", 230 lbs) could end up in the mix this season and ultimately push Bradley for his spot in the rotation.
"Exactly why you go recruit a guy like that," said WVU defensive coordinator Jordan Lesley. "He's exactly what we thought he was. He's one of our best natural pass rushers, just has a knack. He's a lot savvier than you think he would be as early in his career in coverage. I mean, he had a pick today on a tipped ball and really just off reaction. He's going to be a really, really, really good player for us."
How good? How does 18 sacks in just nine games sound? That's what he did in his senior season at Camden HS in New Jersey. That production is what led Heard to being listed on NJ.com’s All-State First Team in 2022.
If we're looking at this big picture, Heard is going to be one of the stars of this Mountaineer defense for years to come. I get that may be an unfair expectation to place on someone who hasn't played a single snap yet, but the talent suggests that to be the case.
The question really is, how soon will Heard assert himself as such? Jordan Lesley is confident that in one way or another, there will be a role for the youngster in 2023.
"I mean, we won't know [until] we put the pads on a couple weeks and kind of see where you go sub packages and stuff like that. But like I said, he's natural. He has natural pass rush movements. Has a knack to feel and react to a pocket. I don't know that for sure, but I'm pretty sure there will be [a role]."
You can follow us for future coverage by liking us on Facebook & following us on Twitter:
Facebook - @MountaineersNow
Twitter - @MountaineersNow and Schuyler Callihan at @Callihan_.
