Indiana Football: Donaven McCulley Ruled Out Against Western Illinois
Backup wideout Javon Swinton expected to start in McCulley's place
Indiana football will be without one of its top playmakers when it opens the 2023 season against Western Illinois on Saturday.
Wide receiver Donaven McCulley has been ruled out for the game with an undisclosed injury, head coach Tom Allen announced on Monday.
McCulley, a redshirt junior, was Indiana's leading receiver in 2022, catching 43 passes for 640 yards and four touchdowns.
Swinton to Start in McCulley's Place
With McCulley out, redshirt sophomore Javon Swinton is expected to start in his place.
Swinton, a former four-star recruit, had 11 catches for 135 yards and two touchdowns last season.
He is a big target at 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, and he is known for his strong hands and ability to make contested catches.
Other Receivers Who Could Step Up
In addition to Swinton, Indiana has a number of other receivers who could step up in McCulley's absence.
- Emery Simmons - Redshirt freshman who had 10 catches for 116 yards last season
- Cam Camper - Redshirt sophomore who had 9 catches for 98 yards last season
- AJ Barner - Redshirt junior who had 5 catches for 48 yards last season
The Hoosiers will need one of these receivers to step up and fill the void left by McCulley.
Impact on Indiana's Offense
McCulley's absence is a big blow to Indiana's offense.
He is one of the team's most dynamic playmakers, and his ability to stretch the field will be missed.
However, Indiana has a number of other talented receivers who should be able to step up in his absence.
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