Chestnut Hill — Boston College football wrapped up its final spring practice session of 2025 this past Saturday at Fish Fieldhouse, giving fans, family members, and prospective recruits a glimpse into the evolving program under second-year head coach Bill O’Brien.
Spring Saturdays in Chestnut Hill have taken on a heightened level of intensity, and this weekend’s practice was no exception. The focus was on full-speed, situational 11-on-11 drills, where players from across the depth chart got meaningful reps. From Alabama transfer tight end Ty Lockwood to true freshman receiver Duke Brennan, a wide range of talent hit the turf, each trying to make their case for playing time.
One of the most talked-about groups this spring has been the quarterbacks.
Returning starter Grayson James, who appeared in five games last season and threw for over 1,200 yards with six touchdowns and just two interceptions, is facing strong competition from Alabama transfer Dylan Lonergan and freshman Shaker Reisig. It’s a quarterback room filled with both depth and upside—something Coach O’Brien isn’t taking for granted.
“These guys are really smart,” said O’Brien. “For Dylan and Shaker to come in just in January and already be where they are—it speaks volumes. Grayson’s continued to do a great job, too.”
Lonergan, a highly touted transfer, found himself buried on the depth chart at Alabama behind Jalen Milroe but brings a live arm and poise to the Eagles’ offense. He and James are in a close battle for first-team snaps, though the competition has bred support rather than friction. On the sidelines, both quarterbacks were seen encouraging one another and celebrating successful drives together—an encouraging sign for team chemistry.
“I’ve been impressed,” O’Brien said. “We’re fortunate to have a quarterback room like this—really talented guys and great teammates.”
But quarterbacks can’t operate alone. The offensive line and backfield will be just as crucial for BC’s success this fall.
With the departure of standout running backs Kye Robichaux and Treshaun Ward, along with offensive linemen Ozzy Trapilo and Drew Kendall to pro opportunities, O’Brien emphasized the importance of reloading rather than rebuilding.
“In the pros, they don’t graduate. They might hit free agency, but you don’t lose guys the same way,” he said. “In college, you plan for this.”
The Eagles are leaning on returning backs Jordan McDonald, Turbo Richard, and Alex Broome—who’s looking to bounce back after missing last season with an ACL injury. Newcomers Bo MacCormack and Mekhi Dodd add depth to the room. Up front, veterans like Dwayne Allick, Eryx Daugherty, Logan Taylor, Jude Bowry, and Kevin Cline are expected to anchor the line.
Saturday’s session also highlighted several playmakers, both new and familiar, who could elevate the team even further after a 7-6 campaign in 2024 that fell just short of the program’s first eight-win season since 2009.
Names to watch include redshirt junior receiver VJ Wilkins, a transfer from Campbell University, along with returning targets Reed Harris, Lewis Bond, Jaedn Skeete, and Jeremiah Franklin. On the defensive side, edge rusher Quintayvious Hutchins continues to flash game-changing potential.
While the immediate starting job may not be in freshman Shaker Reisig’s hands, his presence and early growth didn’t go unnoticed by the coaching staff. Choosing to enroll early rather than spend the spring finishing high school at Union (Okla.) High School, Reisig has already earned respect in the locker room.
“It’s a big transition—from a high school locker room to a D1 college environment with veterans everywhere,” O’Brien said. “To fit in, pick up the offense, and execute plays at this level—Shaker’s done that. He’s got a bright future ahead.”
With the spring slate now complete, all eyes turn to fall camp. And if this spring is any indication, competition will continue to be the driving force behind Boston College’s push for a breakout season in 2025.
