Who Will Step Up in Marcell Ateman’s Absence?

Last week we learned that wide receiver Marcell Ateman will likely be out until at least the start of conference play. Ateman’s injury is an obvious loss for the Cowboys, as the senior was coming off of his most productive season and many fans expected big things from him in 2016. With his absence, there are plenty of other receivers who could see increased time on the field, but here are the three most likely to take his place until he returns.

Chris Lacy

Chris Lacy has excellent Ateman-like size for an outside receiver at 6-3, 205 lbs and has plenty of experience; the junior has played in every game but one in the last two seasons. He hasn’t had a high level of production, but he has shown potential.

He started last season against Kansas, and although the Jayhawks aren’t exactly a football powerhouse, Lacy had an excellent performance, recording four receptions for 76 yards and two touchdowns. Lacy will have the opportunity to harness this potential and have a coming out party in Ateman’s place.

Jhajuan Seales

Jhajuan Seales heads into his final season as an experienced receiver who has had a respectable, yet inconsistent, career. The redshirt senior has seen levels of high production, yet has been held back by his off-the-field troubles and Whataburger nap escapades.

The player has undeniable talent, though.

He showed his capability as an underclassman and his freshman year is still his most productive season. Only James Washington averaged more yards per reception in 2015. Seales has proven his deep-threat ability; if he can stay out of trouble off the field, he will have a chance to have his most fruitful season yet.

Austin Hayes

Austin Hayes has neither the production nor the eye-popping athletic ability of a superstar wide receiver, but he has been a consistent rotation player since his redshirt freshman season in 2012. Hayes has also been praised for his versatility, and has played both in the slot and on the outside for the Cowboys.

Hayes knows the system just as well, if not better, than any other receiver because of his experience in the OSU offense. While he might not rack up a ton of yardage, he is someone that the coaches can depend on. Hayes has only seen one touchdown reception in the past three years. Things could be evidently different in 2016.

Who do you think should start in Ateman’s place? Leave your opinions below in the comments!