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Today’s two players have probably spent time playing directly against each other in practices. They represent a couple of guys that should contribute this year.
Gregory Phillips – Jr.
Lithonia, GA (Arabia Mountain, HS)
6’, 201 pounds
Wide Receiver
2016 Projection: Contributor at wide receiver
Phillips has been a steady reserve the last two seasons, playing in all 24 possible games since he was a true freshman in 2014. That year he caught 10 passes for 151 yards. Last season he was even better, catching 13 passes for 142 yards and two touchdowns. As one of the top reserves we can expect similar numbers this year.
Where Phillips may truly breakout is next season. The top three projected receivers for Purdue are all seniors, so the Boilers will need experience in 2017. Phillips was also a high school teammate of Danny Ezechukwu, one of our starters on defense.
Mike Little – Fr. (RS)
Newhall, CA (Notre Dame HS)
6’, 175 pounds
Cornerback
2016 Projection: contributor at cornerback
Little is one of several young defensive backs eager to get his shot this season. He redshirted last season after being a 3-star prospect in the 2015 recruiting cycle. As a senior he finished with 41 tackles and five interceptions for his high school.