Football: The receiver position is loaded with talent

Football practice has begun, so it's time to start taking a look at the top players position by position. The strongest position in Southern California this season is wide receiver. I count at least 20 senior receivers who will earn scholaships.

So many teams have made the passing game an important part of their offensive scheme that receivers are benefiting.

Lots of receivers have already committed, such as St. John Bosco's Bryce Treggs (California), Carson's Darreus Rogers (USC), Venice's Gabriel Marks (SMU), Lakewood's Malik Gilmore (Oregon State), Loyola's Kodi Whitfield (Stanford) and the Long Beach Poly trio of Richard Smith (Arizona State), Josiah Blandin (Arizona State) and Randall Goforth (Arizona State).

Derrick Woods of Inglewood, Jordan Payton of Oaks Christian, Kenny Lawler of Upland and Jonavaughn Williams of JSerra belong on any elite list.

Among underclassemen, beware of Drew Wolitarsky of Canyon Country Canyon, Michael Davis of Glendale and Steven Mitchell of Alemany. A.J. Holman of Orange Lutheran is coming off a superb summer and could emerge as a top pass catcher.

-- Eric Sondheimer