Arizona State Football: 3 Wildcard Players on the 2018 Sun Devils Roster

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TEMPE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 23: Wide receiver Jalen Harvey #89 of the Arizona State Sun Devils reacts to a first down reception against the Oregon Ducks during the second half of the college football game at Sun Devil Stadium on September 23, 2017 in Tempe, Arizona. The Sun Devils defeated the Ducks 37-35. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Jalen Harvey (Safety)

Senior

As you can see from the photo above, Jalen Harvey hasn’t always been a safety for the Sun Devils. Instead, he was one of the team’s best receivers, having moved there after playing in the secondary as a high school prospect.

Last season, Harvey caught 33 balls as one of Manny Wilkins favorite targets. In his first three seasons at Arizona State, he totaled 58 catches for 961 yards. However, after weighing his NFL options, the senior decided that a return to the secondary would be his best shot at making it to the pros.

In Arizona State’s new 3-3-5 defensive scheme, Harvey will either play the “Ranger” or “Tillman” position. He’s seen time at both in practice, per Sun Devil Source, although he was with the second unit at their most recent practice.

Harvey has worn No. 82 and No. 89 in his ASU career. However, the position change will also result in a number change. This season, the sure-handed Harvey will be wearing No. 43.

On a defensive unit that lacks experience, Harvey, a senior, will be important from a maturity aspect. When he gets totally up to speed on the defensive side of the ball, he’ll definitely be out on the field. The defense, after all, needs as many playmakers as possible.

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