OVERVIEW
Returning Starters: Marquise Deadwiler (5-11, 185, R-Sr., San Diego), Brandon Kakitsuka (6-0, 180, Sr. Crescent City, Calif.), Chase Krivashei (5-9, 175, Jr., Corona, Calif.), Ryan Masters (6-3, 245, San Clemente, Calif.)
Key Losses: Cass White, Kelechi Nwadibia
Other Returning Players: Christian Basden (6-1, 185, R-So., Vacaville, Calif.), Marjani Ellison (6-6, 215, So., Hayward, Calif.), John Todd (6-2, 175, R-Fr., San Diego)
 
The Lumberjack receiving corps remains one of the program's biggest strengths and deepest units. Chase Krivashei, Brandon Kakitsuka and Ryan Masters all made an impact for the Green and Gold last season, but it will be another familiar face that may be ready to make the biggest splash. Marquise Deadwiler was granted another season of eligibility after an appeal with the NCAA granted the talented receiver another opportunity to make plays for the Green and Gold on Saturdays. The San Diego native hasn't suited up for the Jacks since the 2012 season, in which he led the team with 42 catches and 658 receiving yards.
 
Krivashei earned All-Great Northwest Athletic Conference Second Team honors. Through his first two seasons, the Corona Centennial High School product ranks fourth in program history with 159 receptions. If he matches last season's output (63 receptions) Krivashei will rank second behind only HSU Hall of Famer Dustin Creager.
 
Kakitsuka, Masters and second-year product Marjani Ellison return to provide depth and valuable receiving targets for quarterback Robert Webber. Kakitsuka caught 13 passes for 166 yards and two scores and was tabbed one of the spring's most improved players by the coaching staff. Standing at 6-foot-6 and with elite leaping ability, Ellison is a work in progress with no ceiling on his potential. He spent the 2014 season transitioning from his roles as a high school quarterback and finished with 52 receiving yards.
 
Several other receivers will have the opportunity to fight for playing time after redshirting last season and gaining experience in the classroom, film room and weight room.
 
COACH QUOTES
On this season's receivers.
"This might be as strong and as deep of a receiving corps as we have seen in a while," said Offensive Coordinator Eric Tripp. "We also feel very good about our depth."
 
On Deadwiler's return to the field.
"He will be an impact player. He is an explosive player, a great route runner and a student of the game. He has fantastic hands and can make things happen after the catch. He can run and catch any route you want out there. He is continuously working and is quite a football player."


On a player who could make a splash on the field this season
"John Todd really came on late in the spring. We are hoping he will use the spring season as a springboard into the fall and be ready to go. He understands the position, is a playmaker and can run."
 
BIG QUESTION
Is the receiving corps the Jacks' best offensive unit?
If Deadwiler returns to form and can at least match his production from the 2012 season, then the loss of Cass White will be quickly forgotten. Krivashei fought through several nagging injuries last season, some of which occurred before the season even started, and should be fully recovered and ready to take his game to the next level. He caught three touchdowns from Webber during the Spring Game and shined in the Jacks' pre-summer tune up.
 
Kakitsuka was recognized for his spring improvement by the Green and Gold coaches, and players raved about development. He was a steady possession receiver last season and seems like he will be a bigger factor in the offense.
 
Newcomers and redshirt players are always question marks for fans, but last year White proved that a fresh addition to the squad can have an immediate impact. The coaching staff has hinted at the addition of several talented new targets they expect to take the field and provide immediate depth. But fans will have to wait until this fall to see those players in action.

The Green and Gold kick off the 2015 season against archrival Western Oregon on Saturday, Sept. 5 in Redwood Bowl. If you are interested in purchasing season tickets click here.