HARRISONBURG – Ishamel Hyman is all set for James Madison’s Sept. 2 opener at East Carolina.

“I just can’t wait to play,” Hyman said Thursday after the Dukes’ practice. “I’m tired of talking about it.”

The senior wide receiver is in the midst of a solid camp following a great spring, according to his coaches. Wide receivers coach Drew Dudzik said the team hasn’t named any starters at the position yet, but Hyman is taking most first-team snaps at one of the two outside receiver spots.

This time last year, Hyman was sidelined with a collarbone injury, which impacted his whole season. By the time he got healthy, it was too late for him to crack the regular rotation.

He made five catches for 75 yards in 10 games last year. His best play came on a 34-yard reception during JMU’s national semifinal win at North Dakota State.

“This camp is going good,” Hyman said. “And I’m focusing on being a leader and a role model for not just the receivers but the offense.

“If we need a big play, I want to be one of the guys who can spark the offense.”

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- Hyman said each receiver is unselfish, which has helped the position group grow together.

- Dudzik said he would like to have a rotation of six receivers entering the season.

- In the mix for starting roles or playing time are Hyman, senior John Miller, sophomore Riley Stapleton, junior Virginia transfer David Eldridge, senior Terrence Alls, freshman Braxton Westfield and senior Robbie Walker.

- Alls, though, is one of six players suspended for JMU’s opener at East Carolina along with senior tight end Jonathan Kloosterman, senior linebacker Brandon Hereford, senior cornerback Justin Bethea, senior offensive lineman Nick Edwards and freshman defensive lineman Marcus Hawkins. Read the full news story on the suspensions here.

- Both Dudzik and Hyman both raved about how Westfield has emerged during the August camp. Hyman said “He’s impressed me” and Dudzik said, “When [Westfield] learns how big and strong he is and how to use his body to make plays, he’s going to be a tough guy to stop.”

- Senior running back Cardon Johnson is back at full speed and full contact this week at practice. Johnson said he feels good and is anxious for the team’s opener.

- Johnson added he likes the “dynamic ability” of the running back group. He said if the four veteran running backs stay healthy, it could be a very productive unit. Because of the depth, there’s also less pressure on Johnson, who is coming off an Achilles injury, to carry the ball 15 to 20 times per game right away.

- Of his long touchdown in practice earlier this week, Johnson said, “To finally get back out and show that speed, and that you still got it, it’s a blessing from God.”

- Thursday’s practice was heavily focused on special teams. John Miller, David Eldridge and Cardon Johnson were catching punts on Thursday. Punters Harry O’Kelly and Jeremiah McBride both punted during the team portion of drills. Tyler Gray kicked off.