[Buckskin86]

http://www.startribune.com/stories/512/4939905.html

Paris Hamilton and Ernie Wheelwright arrived on campus last year armed with résumés crammed full of accolades. Hamilton was a highly ranked junior college prospect from Texas, while Wheelwright's combination of size (6-5, 210 pounds), skills and athletic ability made Gophers faithful salivate in anticipation.

Their careers -- and hype -- were put on hold, however, when Hamilton suffered a season-ending knee injury in a summer workout and Wheelwright, a true freshman, failed to qualify academically. Both players spent the 2003 season out of football, mostly in solitude.

They said their experiences humbled them and made them appreciate football even more. But time for reflection is over, and both are determined to show they were worthy of the advance billing.

"I wasn't bitter [sitting out]," Wheelwright said. "I was just anxious to get started. I did what I had to do, and now I'm ready to go."

Mason said the competition at receiver is among the best in camp. Ellerson already has established himself as a premier threat. Others in the mix for playing time include Jakari Wallace, Logan Payne, Micah Rucker and Mark Jundt. But Hamilton and Wheelwright are expected to make the biggest impact.

Mason offered only a brief synopsis last week when asked for his initial impression of Wheelwright, a two-time all-state selection from Columbus, Ohio.

"Ernie will play for us," he said, smiling.

Wheelwright's ability to make difficult catches look routine has impressed coaches, although his talent never has been in question. Wheelwright admits he didn't work hard enough in the classroom in high school, and it cost him a year of football. He wasn't cleared to join the team until this summer.

"It was real tough obviously because I've never been out of football," he said. "I had to buckle down and do my academics. Sitting out a year humbled me, but it also motivated me to do what I had to do in the classroom. I'm very proud because in high school I was never on top of my game in the classroom. Now, I feel like I'm on top of my game."