High Expectations Remain for FIU’s 2025 Receiver Room Despite Key Losses
The FIU wide receiver group enters the 2025 season with high expectations despite several key departures during the offseason. The Panthers lost standout receivers Eric Rivers and Dean Patterson, both to Georgia Tech, and another key contributor, Nazeviah Burris, transferred to Arkansas State. As a result, FIU will be counting on its younger talent at the position moving forward.
With spring practices underway, head coach Willie Simmons discussed the goals for the receiver group in 2025.
“We’re looking for consistency,” Simmons said. “We’re not necessarily expecting a dominant player to emerge right away. We’re focused on finding who can consistently make plays, come back to the ball, and do the little things right. As they continue to develop, we’ll figure out who our primary go-to receiver will be.”
Among the returning receivers, junior Juju Lewis stands out. After transferring from Georgia Tech, Lewis played in four games in 2024, recording five receptions for 93 yards and two touchdowns. However, Lewis is recovering from an ACL injury suffered against Florida Atlantic and is not participating in spring practice.
Hawaii transfer Alex Perry has made a strong impression so far and is expected to be a key contributor. Perry, who has 48 receptions for 491 yards and three touchdowns over three college seasons, is seen as more than just a big target in the red zone.
“We’re not going to limit him to just red zone or 50/50 balls,” said wide receivers coach Jelani Berassa. “Perry is a versatile player who can run routes, block effectively, and make plays after the catch. We’ll use him in every way possible.”
Another player gaining attention during spring camp is redshirt sophomore Kyle McNeal, a Dwyer, Florida native. McNeal, who saw limited action on special teams last season, has shown noticeable development.
“Kyle is a guy who is growing,” Berassa noted. “He hasn’t played much yet, but he’s making strides. His talent is evident, and now he’s focusing on the details and his fundamentals, which is starting to show in his play.”
With such a young group, Berassa has been emphasizing the importance of practicing under pressure to prepare for game situations.
“They come to meetings and practice under pressure,” Berassa said. “Every rep is treated as a pressure situation. The goal is to train their minds so that when we get to the games, it feels easy.”
The Panthers’ wide receiver group will have an opportunity to showcase their progress during the FIU spring game on Saturday, April 5, at 3:30 p.m.
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