On Wednesday February 1, 2012, millions of students across the country had their dreams come true. It was national signing day, and student-athletes signed their letters of intent based on what college they planned on going to.
At the University of Miami a new regime had only shortly been in place under Al Golden, and a wave of talent that included 33 players made it clear they would become a Miami Hurricane in the fall.
But over 4 years later after a multitude of disappointments and a coaching change last winter, only 3 remain from Miami’s 2012 class. With only 15 seniors and 32 freshman on the roster this season, redshirt senior Malcolm Lewis knows it is his time to step up.
“I’m the oldest guy in the room,” Lewis said post-practice. “It’s kind of the role I have to take. I’ve been here for a while, and pretty much know the ropes. So I just try to lay it down and lead by example.”
And if there is any example of perseverance for Miami’s player to follow Malcolm Lewis certainly fits the bill. After suffering a gruesome leg injury during his freshman season, Lewis has battled back, and made an impact on the receiving core throughout the last 3 seasons.
Lewis says he constantly tells his teammates “You never know when it’s your last play”, and has worked hard despite difficult circumstances. And yet, with times changing once again in 2016, Lewis is ready to make an impact.
“I’m real motivated,” Lewis said regarding his mindset entering this season with a new staff. “The energy they bring to us, you know, to go hard every day, compete every day, and to just do everything right.”
As a receiver, Lewis has developed a great rapport with all of his Quarterbacks. Lewis developed good chemistry with former Miami gun-slinger Stephen Morris two years ago, and going into his third year playing with Brad Kaaya, Malcolm has spent time working on his mechanics.
“Spending more time during the offseason going through the routes, and getting the timing down pact [has been important].” Lewis said.
And while Lewis has developed from his time with the third year quarterback, Kaaya has also benefited from their experiences together.
“This is like my third year being around most of these guys,” Kaaya said while speaking about his veteran receivers. “I know how they run routes and get breaks and stuff like that so, the timing is pretty good with these guys.”
Lewis has worked with the quarterbacks all over the field this offseason, and stated that he is playing every receiver position right now for the ‘Canes.
Despite his versatility and workload, however, Lewis shied away from stating his personal expectations for the year. When asked if he has any personal goals Lewis said “Of course, but I’m going to keep them to myself.”
Lewis’ statement regarding his aspirations for the season is simple, but sends a message to fans that he is quietly preparing to make an impact. He won’t make a headline-grabbing statement regarding his expectations, but his humility sends an entirely different message of its own.
You may underestimate him, but going into his final year as a ‘Cane, Malcolm Lewis is ready to let his play do the talking.
