The Virginia football team returned to the field for spring practices this week. Coming off a 3-9 season in which the Cavaliers dealt with countless injuries while needing to play inexperienced players, this offseason will serve as a great chance for the team to get healthy and smooth out the details before it tries to turn around the record.

Let’s take a look at some players to keep an eye on as spring football begins. Some are obvious starters and contributors, while others might be more under the radar.

1. Anthony Colandrea (No. 10 – QB)

The Cavaliers are returning two quarterbacks that each started six games in 2023. While the veteran Tony Muskett underwent successful shoulder surgery, he has been cleared for all non-contact portions of spring practice. Still, many fans want to see the progress of sophomore Anthony Colandrea. Across eight appearances last fall, Colandrea went 154-246 (62.6%) and threw for 1,958 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. He added 225 yards on the ground as well. It seems as though the underclassman is already stepping into a leadership role. This offseason, he took to social media to try to recruit transfers to Virginia. He also appeared on a podcast hosted by teammate Jonas Sanker and his brother Nic. After being one of the most exciting true freshmen in all of college football in 2023, the opportunity exists for Colandrea to truly take the ACC by storm.

2. Suderian Harrison (No. 1 – WR)

As a true freshman in 2023, Suderian Harrison appeared in 11 of Virginia’s 12 games, as both a wide receiver and punt returner. He made 9 receptions for 94 yards and had 8 punt returns for a total of 37 yards. Harrison showed glimpses of what he could become. Offensively, the coaching staff used screens to get him the ball, allowing Harrison to use his speed and quickness to pick up yards after the catch. The sophomore brings big-play potential to this offense. With Malik Washington moving on to the draft, there is a great opportunity for Harrison to serve as a deep threat option for this team. Additionally, the South Carolina native played quarterback in high school, so he was still just learning the receiver position a year ago. A full offseason at wideout will certainly benefit the young playmaker and that begins this spring.

...