MyIMGsBURLINGTON, VT — The Vermont Maple made a major statement on Day One of the WAFL Draft, landing two of the most dynamic pass-catching weapons in the class and setting the stage for an explosive offensive future.
Holding the 18th overall pick, the Maple selected Eastern Michigan wide receiver Randal Barlow, a player many draft analysts believed would come off the board much earlier. For Vermont General Manager Howie, the selection was a dream scenario.
When the draft class was unveiled on Friday, Barlow immediately rose to the top of the Maples' draft board. As selections unfolded, Vermont watched as several teams passed on the electrifying playmaker, allowing the organization to seize what many are already calling the steal of the first round.
“Randal was our guy from the beginning,” said Howie following the selection. “We felt he was one of the most talented players in the entire class, and when he was still available at 18, we knew we had to make the call.”
Barlow arrives in Vermont with a reputation for game-breaking athleticism, elite route-running ability, and the ability to create explosive plays whenever the ball is in his hands. His combination of speed and versatility gives the Maple a legitimate deep threat and a cornerstone piece for the future.
Upload my images - myimgs.orgThe Maple weren't finished adding firepower.
With their second selection, 47th overall, Vermont chose Alvin McIntyre, the versatile tight end from Wisconsin. McIntyre's ability to line up in multiple positions and create mismatches makes him one of the most intriguing offensive weapons in the draft.
The addition of McIntyre alongside Barlow gives Vermont an exciting one-two punch in the passing game. Opposing defenses will now be challenged to defend every inch of the field, as the Maple look to attack from sideline to sideline with two players capable of stretching defenses in different ways.
Barlow brings the explosiveness on the outside, while McIntyre provides a reliable target over the middle and in the red zone. Together, they have the potential to transform the Maple offense into one of the most dangerous units in the WAFL.
Day One could hardly have gone better for Vermont. By landing their top-ranked receiver and following it up with one of the draft's most versatile tight ends, the Maple addressed key offensive needs while adding two players who are expected to contribute immediately.
If the first day of the draft is any indication, the future in Vermont is looking brighter than ever. The Maple entered the draft searching for weapons—and left with two of the best.


