Michael Cruz, Owen Baker and Cooper King are anxious to make their contributions and leave their imprint on the Northampton football team for the 2020 season.

The trio, who were contributors on the East Penn Conference (EPC) North Division title last season, likely will step into starting roles in the fall.

There is plenty of incentive for the Konkrete Kids, who had their aspirations cut short last year with an early district loss to Easton.

“Last season was great, but like our coach says, we can’t get too comfortable with anything,” said Cruz, a senior running back in the fall who rushed for 416 yards with four touchdowns as a member of the regular rotation. “So, we have to come into this season with a fresh start.

“We got a lot of new leaders on our team, and we definitely have our minds focused on the season.”

Baker, also a soon-to-be senior running back, envisions a similar situation.

“I think we have a bunch of guys who are willing to work no matter what, which is going to prepare us for the season,” said Baker, who rushed for 172 yards with four touchdowns. “I think we have an opportunity to be EPC North champs again and even go far in districts.”

King, a junior quarterback who will be a wide receiver this fall, can see a good year ahead.

“Hopefully, I’ll get back to my coaches and teammates soon,” said King. “I’m excited for the season to start and can’t wait to get on the field and compete.”

Head coach Kyle Haas is in sync with his players about the potential for the season ahead.

“Mike Cruz is ready for a breakout season,” said Haas. “I think he is going to shock everybody with his running and catching abilities. Mike has contributed offensively and defensively since his sophomore season.

“He’s had to wait behind some really good backs, but when he gets the opportunity, he hits the hole quickly and runs hard.

“Owen Baker was a huge surprise for us last season. He was a backup running back who ran hard when he got his opportunities. He will give us power and balance in our offense.

“Cooper (King) is going to be our quarterback after Joe Kerbacher graduates. He has great size at 6-foot-3 and is extremely athletic. We want to utilize our best players and get them on the field. Cooper is someone who can help us at the wide receiver position.”

Yet, their expectations have been tempered by the universal pandemic potentially threatening their season.

“I’m very positive our team will stay strong and overcome anything that’s thrown in our way,” added Cruz. “At the same time, every school is in the same situation and what separates us from them is effort. I know our team will outwork any team even during these times.

“This season, especially based on everything that’s going on is going to define what you do when nobody is watching. We have an amazing coaching staff who are continuing to put in new installs in our offense and defense, and I’m very optimistic and excited about the 2020 season.”