Name: Joseph Reed
High School: Randolph Henry (Charlotte Courthouse VA)
Height/Weight: 6-2, 200 pounds
Ranking: Rivals 3*, 247 3*, ESPN 3*
The Skinny:
Joseph Reed has been committed to UVa since June of 2014, and the long-time pledge has finally signed on the dotted line. Reed grew up a Virginia fan and helped carry the flag for the class of 2016 throughout the coaching change.
A typical big-time player in a small school setting, Reed played quarterback for Randolph Henry due to a shortage at the position. The multidimensional athlete seemed to enjoy himself behind center, finishing with 2,220 yards and 30 touchdowns last fall. Like former small school prospects Vic Hall and Juan Thornhill before him, Reed played quarterback at Randolph Henry because he was the best athlete on the field, but will now transition to a different role at the college level.
Taking a look at the film above… you get the idea… Reed was a man amongst boys against his high school competition. While at Randolph Henry, Reed would take a snap and simply outrun anybody in his path. Reed displays some nice juke moves and is dangerous when he gets the ball in open space Having played quarterback for a year, Reed now has a better understanding of the offense and knows exactly what a signal-caller is looking for from his wideouts.
Reed's top speed balances out the bigger wideouts Dubois and Howard. Each of the four wide receiver signees brings something different to the table, but none of them can hold a candle to Reed in the speed department. Seeing as how Reed is making the transition back to the outside, look for the talented playmaker to redshirt in 2016. Reed has a lot of experience both on offense and in special teams, and will be a player to watch down the road.