Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – Wide receiver Jaylin Lane has quickly established himself as a crucial component of the Hokies' offense, playing a significant role in revitalizing the team’s passing attack. Last year, the playmaker emerged as a dependable target for quarterback Kyron Drones, starting in nine games and accumulating 41 receptions for 538 yards and six touchdowns. His production earned him the sixth spot among the top ten highest-graded returning wide receivers in the ACC, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF).
Now a fifth-year, Lane continues to make an impact, not only on offense but also on special teams as the 2024 season gets underway. As the Hokies prepare for their upcoming matchup against Old Dominion on Saturday, Sept. 14, at 6 p.m. ET at S.B. Ballard Stadium, fans can tune in to ESPN+ to see Lane in action.
From the beginning of his Hokie career, Lane made his presence felt, appearing in 12 games as a newcomer. The Clover, South Carolina native consistently displayed his explosive playmaking ability with several standout moments, including a 75-yard touchdown reception in a win over Wake Forest and two catches for 64 yards and a touchdown against Pitt, featuring a 53-yard grab that underscored his deep-threat capabilities. By the end of the season, Lane ranked second on the team in both receiving yards and touchdowns. His knack for making big plays has solidified his role as an integral part of the Hokies' offensive strategy. Known for his shifty movements and ability to find extra gear in open space, Lane excels at making defenders miss and turning short passes into significant gains.
Primarily operating from the slot, Lane is a reliable pass-catcher, often converting short throws into critical first downs that sustain drives. Last season, he caught 16 of 17 passes behind the line of scrimmage, turning them into 155 yards after the catch and two touchdowns. Lane’s reliability has continued into this season, highlighted by his performance against Vanderbilt in the season opener, where he logged 62 yards on four receptions, including a 26-yard catch. Against Marshall, he finished second on the team in receiving yards with 41.
Lane’s versatility extends to special teams, where he’s truly begun to shine. Last year, he returned a punt for a touchdown against Boston College before a penalty negated the score. This season, he is reminding everyone of his abilities with a 58-yard punt return touchdown against Marshall, marking his second career return touchdown. His quickness and ability to break tackles were on full display as he took the punt to the house.