With spring practice set to begin on Saturday, March 17, we continue our look at the Memphis football team. Today's preview: Defensive Line
Memphis' defensive line benefited from Genard Avery sliding over from his hybrid linebacker role. But his graduation highlights the fact that the defensive line has questions to answer this spring.
Besides who replaces Avery, the Tigers have struggled to find a consistent pass rush the last few seasons. They excelled at stopping the run, but finding guys who can develop pressure on the edge will be among the top battles to watch this spring.
RETURNING STARTERS
O'Bryan Goodson, Jonathan Wilson
OTHER RETURNERS
John Tate, Emmanuel Cooper, Jacoby Hill, Joseph Dorceus, Khalil Johnson
NEWCOMERS
Barrett Brown, Desmond Hawkins, Braylon Brown
OUTLOOK
Avery isn't the only key departure. Christian Johnson graduated as well and Jared Gentry, who was expected to be a key contributor this year, is no longer on the team following his arrest earlier this month.
Who fills that role at defensive end may not be answered until JUCO transfer Montre Bonner arrives in the summer. Joseph Dorceus, the younger brother of Doroland Dorceus, and fellow sophomore Jacoby Hill will get first cracks to slide in.
On a positive note, there's experience on the line with Goodson and Wilson returning as tackles. Cooper started four games last season and Tate adds experience at tackle. Goodson showed plenty of potential being thrust into starting duty as a true freshman and could emerge as a leader up front.
Khalil Johnson appeared in every game last year, but the junior could emerge this spring to help provide depth. Both Barrett and Braylon Brown will get their first crack with the Tigers after redshirting last year.
The wild card will be if Jackson Dillon is declared eligible for a sixth year. That news will not only impact the linebacking corps, it will give the Tigers additional depth up front with him excelling in the KAT hybrid role.
There were plenty of positives from a defense that forced 31 turnovers and returns eight starters, but will this year see a stronger pass rush? Time will tell.
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Memphis Tigers football spring practice preview: Defensive Line
