As a redshirt freshman in 2003, he was second on the team with 37 receptions for 590 yards and 5 touchdowns. He also rushed 17 times for 39 yards and 3 touchdowns, and averaged 22.1 yards per return on kickoffs and 11.0 yards per return on punts. His 861 total return yards broke the school record previously set by Heisman Trophy winner Davey O'Brien in 1937. He was honored on the Conference USA All-Freshman as both a wide receiver and punt returner and was the third-team punt returner on the All-CUSA team.