Western Wayne Today

The Wayne State University football program, led by third-year head coach Tyrone Wheatley, has announced the signing of 31 student-athletes. This list will be updated to include early enrollees, mid-year transfers, and additional signees in the coming days.

On offense, the recruiting class features three running backs: Kayden Forbes, Malik Shephard, and Chase Stephens. It also includes five wide receivers: Karter Freeman, Connor Knapp, Joseph Lattimore, Cecil Xavier-Smith, and Bishop Thomas; three tight ends: Haiden Bollini, Marquis Meadows, and Brody Videto; as well as four offensive linemen: Kenneth Franklin, Keathan Smith, Evan Wittman, and Deshawn Wright.

Fifteen defensive players have signed with the Warriors. This group consists of three defensive backs: Matthew Evans, DaCari Gilkey, and Jaheem Richmond; five defensive linemen: Jacob Blair, Creg Johnson, Jonathan Major, Jack McCowan, and Tyler Torey; five linebackers: Micah Calhoun, Mason Conklin (who also played tight end), Luke Johnson (also a guard), Johnny Nelson (played at defensive end), and Ryan Spate. Two star athletes—Daylon Doe and Dharon Flowers—round out this segment of the team.

Additionally joining the Warriors is specialist George Sanchez-Murillo who will serve as a place-kicker/punter.

"Stay tuned to WSUathletics.com for bios on all the newcomers," reads a statement from Wayne State University Athletics.

Mason Conklin is among those newly signed. He will graduate from Sparta High School in 2025 after earning two letters in basketball and one in track alongside his football achievements under coach Mark Chapman. He was selected for the 2024 Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Division 3 First Team All-Region following a senior year that saw him achieve 85 tackles including 13 for loss.

Another notable recruit is Daylon Doe from Grosse Pointe North High School where he served as team captain under head coach Joe Drouin. He was recognized by both MHSFCA Division 3 All-State First Team as well as Detroit Free Press All-East Second Team while excelling across multiple sports including basketball and track & field.

Both athletes have detailed plans for their academic futures with Mason intending to major in Exercise Science while Daylon aims to pursue Sport Management studies at Wayne State University.