NU receiver breaks arm; could miss rest of season

Northwestern lost one of its top playmakers Thursday when sophomore wide receiver Andrew Brewer suffered an arm injury at training camp in Kenosha, Wis.

Sources with knowledge of the situation said Brewer broke his left arm and will miss the entire 2007 season. One source said Brewer suffered a compound fracture.

Team spokesman Adam Widman confirmed Brewer hurt his arm Thursday, but he could not provide details about the injury. Widman said coach Pat Fitzgerald will address Brewer's situation following Northwestern's scrimmage today at Carthage College.

Brewer started three games at quarterback last season before switching to receiver in November. He moved full time to receiver this spring and claimed a starting spot.

Brewer's lone reception last season went for 48 yards against Iowa, and the 6-foot-3, 210-pound sophomore figured to be a big-play threat at slot receiver. He had a diving 27-yard touchdown catch in the spring game, and his all-around skills could have been used on end-arounds, reverses and run-pass options.

"It's come pretty naturally for me," Brewer said earlier this week. "God blessed me with some athleticism. I'm just going to use that to ease into the position."

Brewer redshirted in 2005 but can apply for a medical hardship waiver, which would allow him to retain three years of eligibility.

Though Brewer is a significant loss, Northwestern has good depth at wide receiver. Sophomore Kevin Frymire, who has performed well in camp the last two years, likely will replace Brewer.

The Wildcats also might move seniors Tonjua Jones or Kim Thompson into the slot, or promote redshirt freshman Carl Fisher.

Northwestern opens the season Sept. 1, hosting Northeastern at Ryan Field.