Joseph Ossai is expected to become one of the nation’s top defensive players in 2020 under new defensive coordinator Chris Ash.
That says a lot considering he started all 13 games for Texas in 2019, where he led the team in total tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, nine quarterback hurries and five sacks. Ossai even finished the season on a high note, earning defensive MVP honors after recording nine tackles and three sacks in the defeat of Utah in the Alamo Bowl.
With Ash more focused on getting after the opposing quarterback, Ossai’s potential will be unleashed this season. He will be utilized more as a pass rusher rather than a blitzing linebacker. In essence, he will be playing the Jack linebacker in Texas’ new defensive scheme. He’ll drop into coverage at times too, displaying the key attribute of versatility for NFL scouts.
Speaking of, several NFL Draft analysts are already predicting Ossai to be selected within the first few rounds of the 2021 NFL Draft, assuming he chooses to forego his senior season at Texas. If he does in fact have a break out year as expected in 2020, Ossai could realistically become a late first-round selection.
The hype doesn’t stop there.
On Thursday, he was named to the preseason watch list for the 17th annual Lott IMPACT Trophy. The prestigious award is named after Pro Football Hall of Fame member Ronnie Lott, which is given to college football’s Defensive IMPACT Player of the Year. IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity.
All within the Texas organization are aware of how dominant and crucial Ossai is to the defensive unit, he’s deserving of the attention that he is receiving as one of the top defensive players in the nation.
The 17th Annual Lott IMPACT Trophy Award Show will be held Dec. 17, 2020.