CEDAR CITY, Utah - The Southern Utah Thunderbirds football team is gearing up for kickoff next week, and the wide receiver corps is set to be a significant part of their offense. A year ago, injuries forced Southern Utah's receiving corps to take a backseat while the offense leaned on the ground game. But those setbacks also opened the door for young talent to emerge, and with a healthier, deeper room in 2025, the Thunderbirds expect their wideouts to be one of the most explosive units in the UAC.

Head Coach DeLane Fitzgerald Said

"We were forced to grow up fast at wide receiver last year. Now we've got playmakers with experience, leadership, and depth across the board. This group has the ability to change games for us."

Back and Better Than Ever

Leading the charge is Mark Bails, the Seton Hill transfer whose 2024 season was cut short by injury. Before arriving in Cedar City, Bails averaged more than 20 yards per catch and earned First Team All-PSAC honors with 926 yards and eight scores in 2023. Now fully healthy, the 6-3 senior adds size, experience, and a proven knack for making contested catches.

Alongside him is Gabe Nunez, one of the most versatile weapons in the conference. Nunez pulled in 44 passes for 627 yards and three scores last season while also flashing as a dynamic punt returner. Tabbed as a Preseason All-UAC First Team punt returner and Third Team wideout, the Beaumont, California product gives the Thunderbirds a reliable option who can stretch the field or move the chains.

Devin Downing brings consistency to the group after a solid redshirt freshman campaign in which he logged 293 yards and two touchdowns. A former three-star recruit out of American Fork, Downing's precise route running and steady hands make him a dependable target. 

Another key piece is Shane Carr, who burst onto the scene as a freshman in 2024. The 6-2 Bakersfield native appeared in all 12 games, racking up a team-high 627 yards and six touchdowns while averaging a blistering 20.2 yards per catch. Carr's big-play ability quickly established him as SUU's top vertical threat, and he'll look to build on his Phil Steele All-UAC honors.

Fellow returner Anson Kraut continues to develop, while Caden Lettis, Chance Arbon, and Jack Fairchild aim to carve out larger roles after limited action in previous seasons.

Fresh Faces

The Thunderbirds also welcome an exciting crop of newcomers. Freshmen Antonio Walton (Cathedral HS) and David Spjut (Davis HS) arrive with strong high school résumés, each bringing speed and all-purpose ability. JUCO transfer Bryson Waterman adds experience after scoring six touchdowns last fall at City College of San Francisco. Incoming freshmen Josh Sanders and redshirt freshman Exavier Williams round out the group, both boasting productive prep careers and upside as future contributors.

With size, speed, and proven playmakers across the depth chart, this year's receiving corps is built to bounce back from last season's adversity. If Carr continues his upward trajectory, Nunez maintains his dual-threat impact, and Bails returns to form, Southern Utah's passing game could become one of the most dangerous in the UAC.

The Thunderbird Coaches Show

Don't forget to check out the Thunderbird Coaches Show at our new time every Tuesday at noon MT. You can watch it on YouTube by clicking here or on WatchSports.com. If you are more of an audio person, find it on your favorite podcast sites like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Tickets

Season tickets, mini packages, and single-game tickets are now available! Get yours today by visiting tbirdtickets.com

Follow Us

For all the latest on Southern Utah football, follow @SUUFB_ on Twitter, @SUUFB on Instagram, and like the Southern Utah Football Facebook page.

Donate

Consider donating today to support Thunderbird athletics. To learn more about how you can help, click here.