Primer
There’s no drama when it comes to the starting duo at defensive tackle as Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant form likely the best duo at the position anywhere in the country. The question then lies in the rotation — equally important to the position group’s success. Rayshaun Benny was heavy in rotation the past two years but he broke his leg in the Rose Bowl. Enow Etta was the most hyped player in spring ball and figures to play a big role this year. Ike Iwunnah and Trey Pierce are wild cards but have been getting some late fall camp hype.
Projected starters: Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant
Rotation: Rayshaun Benny, Enow Etta, Trey Pierce, Ike Iwunnah
Position outlook
Like we said, there’s no drama at the top of the ticket, but will the rotation be as good as it was last year? Benny is still working back from injury but defensive line coach Lou Esposito said he’s good to go for the season opener. We’ll certainly see Etta play a role and he could also flex to the outside as he was recently converted from edge rusher. Pierce has some huge upside and could be this year’s Kenneth Grant, mixing size and athleticism. Iwunnah passed his preseason conditioning test for the first time this year and has been drawing rave reviews in fall camp.