STONY BROOK, N.Y. — Kevin Hyland celebrated his birthday Sunday. His biggest gift? He was promoted to Stony Brook football's wide receivers coach five days earlier.
 
Hyland previously served as the offensive assistant on Chuck Priore's staff. Hyland is very familiar with the young and talented groups of receivers that he inherited.
 
"Having established relationships is crucial," Hyland said. "The trust and respect is already there so we can hit the ground running."
 
The Seawolves will undoubtedly have depth at receiver. There are 15 listed on the 2020 roster. Seven of those have logged game time, including six with Stony Brook.
 
"We have enough game experience," Hyland said. "Things that can help are film study, playbook study and getting out and running routes. Those can help to perfect their craft as a receiver. Being a student of the game will help when their time comes to be the standout of the game."
 
Redshirt junior Delante Hellams Jr., redshirt senior Peter McKenzie and redshirt freshman Shawn Harris Jr. are among the leaders of the group. That trio combined for 35 catches for 558 yards and three touchdowns in 2019.
 
Redshirt sophomore Isaiah Givens, along with transfers Malik Love and Khalil Newton, also provide experience. Love is a graduate transfer from New Hampshire. Newton will be a junior for the Seawolves after arriving from Ball State.
 
"We have some guys who transferred in who will add to the depth of already talented guys," Hellams said. "We can have one of the top offenses in the country. I'm excited to see what this group can accomplish."
 
Redshirt juniors John Corpac, Jahquel Webb and Mike Saleme, along with redshirt sophomores Lukas Merluzzi and Ryan Vadis, add to the depth.
 
"All of these guys have been working hard during the offseason," Hyland said. "I could talk about the whole group for hours. They are all awesome young men who are hungry."
 
Confidence from the coach is important, but having confidence from the quarterbacks can go along way toward success.
 
"The QB-WR relationship is vital," Hyland said. "Having Tyquell (Fields) back after an outstanding first year as a starter is a huge help to the WR group.
 
"Having the QBs and WRs in sync takes time and reps. Luckily we have a bunch of time and reps built up with all of the returning quarterbacks."
 
Ultimately, Hyland wants his birthday present to be a championship ring.
 
"I want these guys to get better every day," Hyland said. "I want them to enjoy this great game and work with each other to have a positive impact on this team, the community and all those around us. The results will take care of themselves if we focus on the process of growth and improvement."