From The Tribune staff reports
CLAY — Clay-Chalkville didn’t need Mario Craver on Friday night, as the Cougars dismantled Briarwood 48-0. The junior wideout was present on the sidelines, dressed in a jersey but no pads, and head coach Drew Gilmer said Craver will be out for multiple games at the start of the season.
Craver, who had a breakout year in 2021 for the Cougars, finished that season with 46 receptions, 937 yards and 10 receiving touchdowns, averaging 20.4 yards per catch as a sophomore.
Craver’s absence is not injury-related, Gilmer said.
“We’ve got a few things we’re dealing with with Mario,” Gilmer said. “He’ll be back here soon, and we’re looking forward to his return.”
Gilmer did not specify a timetable for Craver’s return to the field.
Clay-Chalkville plays at Hueytown on August 26, and Craver will not be available for that game. Hueytown, which made it to the 2021 6A finals before falling to the Cougars, lost its opener to Ramsay 41-28.