RE: Key Departures - Likely Replacements?
I echo the sentiments of wishing for Bellamy in the slot. He's fast, he's got the hands, he played WR in HS. He would be a perfect fit with his speed, quickness and elusiveness.
We will see a number of WRs step up after the loss of Braverman and Roberts. Anton Curtis and Kadeem Goulbourne are two that have a ton of potential. Keishawn Watson is smaller, but talented. Michael Henry is turning into a proven commodity as well.
Sam Beal is the likely replacement for Zamort at corner. He saw plenty of playing time as a true frosh. I like that we have depth in the secondary with Ian Thomas, Malik Rucker, Tyree Stone-Davis, Obbie Jackson, and more.
There are a number of guys that will battle for the LT spot. Wesley French, Zach Novoselsky, Elliot Jordan, etc... Jordan was the backup LT this past season, but I think French or someone else will win the job by the fall.
The defensive front 7 is loaded with talent and experience. There are at least 11 guys that will be fighting for starting spots on the D-line (Turner, Adams, Simpkins, Assuoa, Jackson, Braster, Matich, Balabani, Curle, Winston, Finley), and then add in the incoming freshmen (Aguirre, Asbury, Guillory) for depth. It will be interesting to see how that battle shakes out. My too-early front four starters prediction: DE Adams, DT Curle, NG Winston, DE Braster.
LB also has talent with Spillane, Lewis, Bailey, Rolle. Alex Grace will probably rotate in. Freshman Tristian Pipp enrolled early, could he be an immediate impact guy? The other incoming freshmen (Rogers, Culp, George) will add much needed depth and athleticism. Starting three will probably be Spillane, Lewis, Bailey...unless Pipp swoops in and earns a starting spot.
I really like the 2016 class and this team will be loaded with talent. Now let's stick it to Northwestern and Illinois!
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