Just one day after the news broke of Arizona State quarterback Jaden Rashada’s transfer, the Sun Devils are taking another hit offensively. Last season Elijhah Badger was ASU’s top receiver tallying 65 receptions for 713 yards. Badger also added on three touchdowns.
Now, the Sacramento native and former four-star recruit is entering the transfer portal, first reported by Chris Karpman of Sun Devil Source.
Arizona State leading pass catcher Elijhah Badger enters portal
Badger has spent the last four seasons in Tempe. He will finish his Arizona State football career with 1,751 total yards, and 13 total touchdowns.
The wide receiver was set to be a top receiver in the Big 12 this season and enters the portal with one remaining season of eligibility. Badger is expected to have many suitors, including Alabama and Texas A&M (per Chris Karpman).
This move comes shortly after the change in wide receiver coach at ASU. Ra’Shaad Samples, ASU’s previous WR coach left earlier this month for a position with the Oregon Ducks.
Kenny Dillingham moved quickly in hiring a replacement for Samples, adding legendary wide receiver Hines Ward to the staff. Ward has only been involved in a couple of practices this spring, but Badger has been limited due to an injury suffered against Oregon last season.
While Badger’s decision certainly is a hit to ASU’s offense, the Sun Devils have a lot of depth at his position. Jordyn Tyson and Troy Omiere have been consistent spring standouts. The Sun Devils also have Melquan Stovall, Jake Smith, and Xavier Guillory in the mix at receiver.
Badger has one remaining season of eligibility, and will be finishing his career outside of Tempe.
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