Pinson Valley fielding four senior receivers

 

By Alex Headley

 

The Pinson Valley High School offense is bringing some offensive firepower to the field this season. Earnest Robinson, Harry Mason, Aj Freeman and Justin Brown are all experienced seniors with at least three years of play under their belts.

“Earnest gets most of the attention, but all these guys are great,” Chris Mills, the offensive coordinator said. “They can really stretch the field.”

According to Mills, senior Harry Mason leads by example.

“He does everything you ask,” he said. “He runs great routes, has good hands, can block and he is not scared to get in there and take it over the middle. He can get the ball.”

Mason caught 38 balls last season, had 10 touchdowns and over 500 yards receiving.

Coupled with Robinson on the field, Mills said, “They give us some serious advantages. Its hard to put pressure on both of them.”

Robinson is already committed to Auburn University and despite some injuries last season, he managed to catch 32 passes, scored 12 touchdowns and averaged 20 yards a catch.

“We like our chances of him coming down with the ball,” Mills said.

Running back Aj Freeman will be pulling double duty for the offense. Freeman caught 35 balls and had over 500 yards receiving in addition to his more than 600 yards rushing and an average of 7 yards per carry.

“He is incredibly versatile,” Mills said. “He knows the offense as well as anyone. I can line him up anywhere on the field and he will make adjustments.”

According to Mills, senior Justin Brown has just been waiting his turn.

“I’m very proud of him,” he said.  “I think he will surprise people this year.”

Brown filled in for Robinson for several games last year when Robinson was injured.

“He has hit the weight room very hard this summer,” Mills said. Brown is 6’1” and 200 pounds.

Mills said that a few other guys are getting ready to step up when the seniors leave at the end of the season.

“Dylan Evans is probably the next guy on the list,” he said.  “Nick Gibson could see some time as a receiver, as well. We have some 8th and 9th graders we are looking forward to developing, as well. The younger kids will have to step up and be ready to go next season.”