Oregon State Football: Most Valuable Player Countdown - #25 Jesiah Irish

We continue our most valuable players list at #25, now just 27 days away from the Beavers season opener against Oklahoma State at Reser. Today we look at a player who could make some big plays on offense and special team’s next season.

#25 Jesiah Irish - Wide Receiver

Jesiah Irish is a name Beaver fans have heard a lot of over the last year or so, but haven’t seen too much of in terms of on-field play; that is bound to change this season. After utilizing the new redshirt rule, Irish will enter next season as a redshirt freshman despite seeing playing time in four games last year.

During that limited playing time, Irish made two receptions for 23 yards, returned four kicks for 80 yards, and fielded two punts which were returned for 15 yards. Those numbers don’t necessarily jump out at you, but from what coaches have been saying and what Irish showed during spring camp, he will be an electric part of OSU’s offense and special teams. Irish’s lean 5-11, 173 pound frame, and blazing speed will make him a deep threat and probable return specialist.

Irish is a bit of a wildcard given that he hasn’t had much in-game experience. It’s possible he turns out to be a big play maker for the Beavs, it’s also possible that he may be used more as a returner than on offense, but after hearing coaches raving about him, I’d say it’s more likely we’ll see Irish on the field quite a bit next season.

Projected Statistics:

20 Receptions, 278 Yards, 2 Touchdowns. 28 Kick Returns, 689 Yards (24.6 YPR), 1 Touchdown. 16 Punt Returns, 172 Yards (10.75 YPR), 1 Touchdown.