Defensive line

Defensive End
Kwami Jones, Sr.
Alex Cruz, Jr.

Isaiah Johnson, Jr.
Leevel Tatum III, Sr.

Defensive Tackle
Kevin Atkins, Sr.
Leonard Payne Jr., Soph.

Alex Dumais, Soph.
Kurtis Brown, Jr.

The defensive line, where nine players appeared in at least six games last fall, had plenty of its own trials and, hopefully, you’re sensing a theme. Last year’s frustrations are this year’s experience, however, but the Bulldogs have at least one new face in Brown who could play his way into the interior rotation. There may not be an obvious Tyeler Davison-like talent, but it could be deep and productive if healthy.

Linebacker

Justin Rice, Sr.
Devo Bridges, RS Fr.

Arron Mosby, Sr.
Rian Fields, Soph.

Levelle Bailey, Soph.
Sherwin King Jr., Soph.

Thankfully, the Bulldogs don’t have to replace the entire unit this time around, so the focus around this unit is building depth. Because the first time is likely already in place, there’s not much to say here.

Cornerback

Chris Gaston, Jr.
Deven Jarvis, RS Fr.

Randy Jordan, Soph.
Deshawn Ruffin, RS Fr.

Gaston figures to have at least one spot locked down, but the race to replace Jaron Bryant could take a while to sort out. Several young guys should have an opportunity to state their case, but a veteran like senior Deonte Perry could make this their moment to launch themselves into the starting lineup, too.

Safety

Free Safety

Evan Williams, Soph.
L.J. Early, RS Jr.

Strong Safety

Wylan Free, Jr.
Reggie Strong, RS Fr.

Juju Hughes leaves some massive shoes to fill, but I’d guess that Free will get first crack to do so after an up-and-down 2019. Williams, who replaced Free opposite Hughes in November, came on strong and figures to have every chance to keep his hold on that job. Beyond that? The defensive backfield is long on youth, so the best bet is new coordinator William Inge will begin filling in the gaps with that in mind.

Kicker

Cesar Silva, Sr.
Asa Fuller, Jr.

The switch to Silva last fall left a lot to be desired because he made just 12-of-21 field goal attempts, so expect Silva, Fuller, and Mateo Thompson to get as much work as they can to create some clarity. Chances are, however, that this competition remains open long into fall camp.

Punter

Carson King, Soph.
Cade Fuller, RS Fr.

Blake Cusick is going to be very difficult to replace and the odds are that this race, too, will extend into the fall. King, by virtue of being Cusick’s backup last fall, will probably start in the pole position.

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