The roles have quickly changed for Xavier Townsend.
Not that long ago, the Tampa native would have been regarded as the young guy in the wide receiver room. Now entering his third year in the program, Townsend is viewed as one of the veterans.
"No, I don't (feel like a veteran) at all," Townsend said. "Looking around in the room, we've got a lot of young guys. I guess I am one of the old guys now."
As a sophomore in 2023, Townsend was UCF's third-leading receiver with 33 catches for 325 yards and three touchdowns.
A lot more will be expected of him on the field, but off the field as well. He's embracing his new role.
"Coaches are stressing this offseason to be more vocal," Townsend said. "When I was younger, I led by example and now I'm trying to step into the role of being more vocal."
UCF had three freshmen wide receivers join the team in January: Bredell Richardson, Jordyn Bridgewater and Kason Stokes. He's doing what he can to bring them along.
"All of them doing a really good job," Townsend said. "Bredell is coming out making plays, so are Kason and Bridgewater. Bridegwater is mainly in the slot so I've been able to talk to him more. Kason and Bredell are both from Tampa so I've known them for a while. They come to me when they have a question. It's good that I have a different connection with each of them to connect on a personal level."
Townsend added that he and Bredell used to train together in Tampa.
"Bredell's got hands," Townsend said. "I think that's his biggest skill set. When the ball touches his hands, it's usually not going anywhere."
This spring is obviously important for the offense to become in tune with transfer quarterback KJ Jefferson.
"He brings some versatility. Just like John (Rhys Plumlee), he can throw and run the ball. I think he's going to stay in the pocket a little bit more and trust his arm more. Having trust in us to be where we need to be, so that's going to be a little bit different."
Asked about early spring practice standouts, Townsend mentioned Bredell Richardson and cornerback Chasen Johnson among the younger players, and cornerback Brandon Adams plus wide receivers Jarrad Baker, Chauncey Magwood and Kobe Hudson among the returners.
In regards to Chasen Johnson, Townsend said he's got great footwork and plays the ball well.
Townsend said last year's 6-7 record was "unacceptable." They have the players and talent to win the Big 12 Championship.
