Army football freshmen have showed signs of progress in the preseason.
However, it’s yet to be determined if any plebes will be making an early-season impact.
Coach Jeff Monken mentioned quarterback Ethan Washington as one freshman that is going to make the travel roster after the team’s second preseason scrimmage.
“He’s just a talented guy,” Monken said followed the second scrimmage one week ago. “I feel pretty good about him. I don’t know that there is anybody (freshman) else right now at any position that we feel like might be a travel guy.
“Perhaps, on defense in the secondary, there might be a guy. But right now, I feel really good about that freshman class. It’s just guys that are not quite ready.”
Army travelled three freshmen to its season opener at Louisiana-Monroe one year ago. The Black Knights open this season Friday night at Michie Stadium Friday against Lehigh, which gives Army the opportunity to dress more players for a home game. We’ll see how many plebes make their college debut Friday.
Here’s a look at five Army freshmen to watch this season (All five played at Army Prep last season):
Ethan Washington, quarterback: Washington worked his way onto the depth chart behind returning starter Bryson Daily, junior Dewayne Coleman and sophomore Cale Hellums. The 6-foot-1, 193-pound Georgia native seems to have a good grasp of Army’s offense and can be an elusive runner. Washington’s cousin is NBA star, Olympic gold medalist and Los Angeles Lakers all-star Anthony Davis.
Matt Gemma, nose tackle: Gemma might be the most physically-ready player in the Black Knights’ freshman class. The 6-foot-1, 295-pound Gemma was Army’s first commit of 2023 recruiting class. Played in the U.S. Army all-American game as Delbarton (N.J.) senior.
Larry Pickett, safety: Monken praised Pickett’s athletic ability in the preseason. Pickett, who was originally committed to Navy, has good ball instincts. He could see some time on special teams earlier in the season.
Javon Smith, defensive end: Army likes to keep its defensive line fresh and could see the 6-foot-2, 245-pound Smith getting more into the mix as the season progresses. Smith was a three-sport standout (football, basketball, track and field) at Liberty North High School in Kansas City, Mo.
Nick Buchys, defensive end: Buchys made the most of his snaps practicing with Army’s veteran players in the preseason. The coaching staff likes the 263-pound Buchys’ toughness.
