With punt returner Hassan Childs (torn right ACL) sidelined for the season, the Bulls are considering turning to a freshman to fill the vacancy.
Linebackers/special teams coach Raymond Woodie said Thursday former Plant High standout Jordan Reed currently leads the tight competition, which also includes Tampa Bay Tech alumnus Tajee Fullwood and receivers Tyre McCants and Chase Whitehead.
Reed, a consensus three-star prospect, had 304 yards on punt returns as a Panthers senior last season.
"It's time for someone to step it up," Woodie said. "Out of those four -- going into next week -- we're going to know.