Jake Schermer’s rise to first-team linebacker might have been the least expected, considering hype surrounding Mike Rivera, Joe Mortensen, James Holt and Brandon Duncan in recent months.

One year ago, Schermer was on scout team after finishing up high school at Ozark (Mo.) High, near Springfield. He wasn’t mentioned often among the new-look linebacker fleet hoping to replace last year’s senior class.

Now, he’s looking at getting a large chunk of playing time for being “tough as nails” and “highly intelligent,” according to coach Mark Mangino.

“Now thinking about it, it’s pretty amazing,” Schermer said of his climb. “But I think a lot of people could do it, if you put your mind to it.”

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Still uncertain: Kansas mixed and matched five different receivers among first-team repetitions Friday, including Brian Murph, Marcus Herford, Dominic Roux, Dexton Fields and Marcus Henry.

“The receivers right now might be the most improved group since last season on the field,” Mangino said. “They really are. I think those kids are coming together, and there a lot of able-bodied kids there.”

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What’s next: KU will scrimmage for fans as part of fan appreciation day at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday. The event will be held at Memorial Stadium and is KU’s last non-game action fans will be able to see this season.