Pinellas County's Top Receivers: A Season of Explosive Talent and Fast Connections

Jan 18, 2024

Javeyon McKenzie showed up big for Northeast including a game winning catch against a Top 5 Largo in the season ending game. Can he continue his success with Trey Whirley now at Toledo?

As the high school spring season approaches, we decided to put the spotlight on the returning, standout receivers who electrified the field in Pinellas County. Let's take a closer look at the top receivers set to make waves in the upcoming season.

## 1. Javeyon McKenzie (Northeast High School)

**Stats (2023):** 47 receptions, 795 yards, 9 touchdowns

The top returning receiver in Pinellas County, Javeyon McKenzie, proved himself as a force to be reckoned with last season. Standing at 6'0 and weighing 160 pounds, McKenzie is a speedster known for his ability to create separation and make explosive plays. His success this year will undoubtedly rely on the synergy with a new quarterback, as Trey Whirley moves on to Toledo. Watch for McKenzie's dynamic style and knack for finding the end zone.

## 2. Austin Ho (Calvary Christian)

Austin Ho is now the #1 target at Calvary for the new quarterback coming in. Despite Josh Robinson leaving, Ho's speed and shifty ability will allow him the opportunity to touch the same marks Robinson touched last year which is a possible 1,000 yard season.

**Stats (2023):** 52 receptions, 769 yards, 13 touchdowns

Former teammate of Josh Robinson, Austin Ho steps into the spotlight as a key receiver for Calvary Christian. A familiar face in the 7-on-7 ranks, Ho's speed and agility have set him apart. Standing at 5'8 and weighing 150 pounds, he reaches top-end speed rapidly, making him a shifty target for his quarterback. However, the looming question is who will be throwing to Ho this season, and can he duplicate the same success he had with Jacob Drackett at quarterback? Alongside Sean Cuono, Ho has the opportunity to showcase his hands and contribute significantly to Calvary Christian's offensive prowess.

## 3. Nick Jeffords (Countryside High School)

Jeffords only played in 6 games last year and put up numbers that if he had played in all ten games he would have easily been the #2 reciever behind Robinson. With a playoff team and quarterback is he the #1 reciever in the county?

**Stats (2023 - 6 games):** 23 receptions, 541 yards, 4 touchdowns

In just six games, Nick Jeffords from Countryside High School left an indelible mark on the field. With 541 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns, Jeffords emerged as the primary option for a struggling team. The question now is whether this talent will remain at Countryside and if they can replicate the success of last season. Eyes will be on Jeffords as they aim to prove that their impact is not a one-time occurrence.

## Honorable Mentions:

** Gavin Richardson (Northside Christian).** A 6'1, 172 pound reciever with sure hands but has he reached his ceiling playing against lighter competition. Had 39 rec for 611 yards and is clearly the best athlete on field most games.

Richardson was 3rd in receiving yards amongst returning recievers but we need to see 1,000 yards this season to show that the light competition isnt a fluke.

**Brandon Kubay (Clearwater Academy International):** Standing at 6'4 and weighing 225 pounds, Kubay adds a significant presence to Clearwater Academy International's receiving corps.

Kubay is a stud that will most likely benefit from Kavouklis growth as a quarterback and the consistent presence of recruiters at CAI. We exppect a breakout season from him and Makih Johnson

**Makih Johnson (Clearwater Academy International):** An athletic 6'2, 190-pound receiver, Johnson is due for a breakout season as he contributes to Clearwater Academy International's offensive arsenal.

**Colin Cervoni (Largo High School):** Returning for Largo High School, Cervoni brings his experience and skills to bolster the team's receiving options.

**Keyshaun Birks (Pinellas Park):** A sophomore sensation, Birks adds to Pinellas Park's offensive firepower. Keep an eye on this rising star.

**Amari Caro (Pinellas Park):** Another key contributor to Pinellas Park's receiving corps, Caro brings his skills to the field as a valuable asset for the team.

**Kaiden Nobles (Pinellas Park):** A transfer from Indian Rocks, Nobles joins Pinellas Park with the aim of enhancing the team's receiving options.

These receivers, along with the previously mentioned top three, lead the charge in Pinellas County, showcasing their skills and athleticism on the gridiron. As the season unfolds, fans can anticipate a thrilling display of talent, speed, and hands from these receivers, creating unforgettable moments on the high school football stage.