San Diego State Shakes Up Depth Chart: Emanuel Moves to Wide Receiver, DiLeva Takes Kicking Role
San Diego State released its first depth chart of the season, showing Bert Emanuel Jr. moving from quarterback to wide receiver. Cooper DiLeva will handle placekicking duties, replacing Gabe Plascencia. The Aztecs open their season Saturday against Portland State.
Emanuel's shift to receiver capitalizes on the athleticism he displayed in the New Mexico Bowl, where he racked up 170 rushing yards before exiting with a shoulder injury. His father's NFL career as a receiver after playing quarterback in college provides a natural template for this transition. He now tops the depth chart at Z receiver, ahead of transfers Justius Lowe and Jacob Bostick.
The kicking battle was tightly contested through fall camp, with four candidates competing for the role vacated by Plascencia, who signed with Chicago but was waived in June. DiLeva's 35-yard make in a scrimmage helped secure the job. Additionally, returning starters Jordan Napier and Bostick are recovering from knee surgeries, so the Aztecs plan to manage their workloads early in the season.
These roster decisions could shape San Diego State's competitive trajectory in their first Pac-12 season. Emanuel's position change may add a dynamic receiving threat, potentially boosting offensive production and fan engagement. The kicking switch introduces uncertainty