One of the biggest questions facing the Gophers heading into Friday's first practice is how they're going to replace KJ Maye, whose 73 receptions last year were the second most in school history.

"I just think that we have the talent there," coach Tracy Claeys said Thursday. "Eric Carter, Drew [Wolitarsky] -- I mean, with Rashad Still there, we're going to add Hunter Register, who was a redshirt a year ago. I think we have the people there, but obviously somebody has got to step up and make some of the plays that KJ made. He caught an awful lot of balls that moved the chains or scored touchdowns."

Wolitarsky ranked second on the team with 39 receptions last year as a junior. He's taken over as the senior leader for the wide receivers, leading them through summer workouts.

As for replacing Maye as quarterback Mitch Leidner's favorite target?

"Yeah, I want to be that guy," Wolitarsky said. "I'm ready to be that guy. So we've been training all summer for me to be that guy."