The SMU Mustangs are bolstering their wide receiver lineup with the addition of Jalen Hale from Alabama and Yannick Smith from East Carolina. This move follows the departure of the team’s leading receivers, Jordan Hudson and Romello Brinson, who combined for more than 1,400 receiving yards and nine touchdowns last season before graduating.
Quarterback Kevin Jennings is currently recovering from a hand injury, limiting his ability to work with several offensive contributors, such as tight ends Matthew Hibner and RJ Maryland, along with running backs TJ Harden and Chris Johnson Jr. Nevertheless, Hale and Smith have shown promise in fall camp.
Redshirt freshman quarterback Ty Hawkins praised Smith’s size for making contested catches and highlighted Hale's speed and agility in avoiding defenders.
Hale, a former five-star recruit, had a strong start at Alabama but was sidelined for the entire 2024 season due to a significant knee injury. He has since regained his form at SMU, displaying his explosive playmaking skills.
Smith, who accumulated more than 1,000 receiving yards and eight touchdowns during his time at East Carolina, is recognized for his aggressive playing style and ability to secure difficult catches.
