Trayone Gray Looking to Make an Impact in His Senior Year

Trayone Gray, who arrived on campus in 2014, has only amassed 221 yards throughout his career, but may have a chance to fulfill a larger role in his Senior year.

The Hurricane running back situation has been described as a ‘committee,’ and a ‘three-headed monster” by some this off season. Five-star recruit Lorenzo Lingard was expected to be an instant contributor once he arrived on campus, but has since found himself at the bottom of the depth chart.

Gray, who missed the 2016 season due to an ACL tear, has changed positions, and remained patient for his chance at decent playing time.

Trayone stands at 6’2, 240 lbs, making him a great fit for a power back; which could be quite useful for Mark Richt’s scheme. Gray could possibly become a nice goal line, or short yardage back - considering the Canes’ 3rd down struggles.

A 3-star recruit from Opa Locka, Gray has always been looked at as a depth running back, but has since improved from his early days as ‘Cane.

“Pad level has always been his issue,” according to Thomas Brown. “He is a stiffer hip dude. He is big and powerful. He is better than he has been in the past...”

With Realus George Jr. arriving this off season, the move back to Running Back for Gray is a logical decision for Richt’s staff. Lorenzo Lingard, Cam’Ron Davis, and Robert Burns make up a young corp, that has amazing potential, but aren’t quite ready yet. Letting them develop, and incorporating Trayone in the system is a smart move.

We can expect to see Travis Homer and DeeJay Dallas get the majority of the carries, but Trayone offers a change of pace and size for the offense, and can provide solid pass protection in addition. We’ve witnessed multiple games where Richt’s scheme has become redundant and figured-out, and a third option at Running Back (barring injuries) could help expand his attack.