Janarion Grant appears the biggest threat to fifth-year senior Quron Pratt at punt returner, although Rutgers traditionally values experience there. (Tyler Barto)

By Tyler Barto

Twitter: Tyler_Barto

tbarto@trentonian.com

Through more than a week in Piscataway, Janarion Grant has shown quick-twitch ability and change of direction skills as a slot receiver. His stock has risen at similar speed.

He has drawn attention from all parties, including Brandon Coleman, who shared a private moment with Grant during warm-ups before a practice last week.

The true freshman touched on a number of subjects at media day, found below:

On progress in training camp: "I'm just trying to learn all the plays and learn the concepts of the defense and how to work around your routes."

On how Rutgers' staff has tried to find his niche: "They're liking me at punt returner and kick returner, as I'm hearing so far. It seems like that could be my role — going in as a slot receiver, making some plays. I'm just excited about everything, coming here and learning."

On what will separate him as punt returner: "I have a lot to get to know and develop. I'm looking forward to getting on the field, using my ability to punt return and kick return and at wide receiver to help the team."

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On philosophy change since high school: "As soon as I came up with here, (strength and conditioning) coach (Jeremy) Cole was in there telling us about the expectations of being in the weight room and outside: doing what you're supposed to be doing. Just staying focused. Some people might be quiet leaders. You might have leaders that speak out to you, let you know what you're doing wrong. Me, I think I'm the type of leader that's just quiet. I'll do it and not really talk."

On avoiding contact as a slot receiver: "No, not yet. I have gotten hit going across the middle, but not like, 'Oh, I just realized I'm in college.'"

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On best physical assets: "I think it's my speed and my vision, knowing what's around me."