Illinois Football: Projected Defensive Depth Chart
2nd String
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DE Sean Adesanya
Adesanya brings youth and great size to the Illini. He is a quick player but can still get a great push off the line. I expect him to see a decent amount of reps this season.
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DT Teko Powell
The defensive line is loaded with seniors this season. Powell is going to be a good rotation player and one that is going to benefit the Illini greatly when starters need a rest.
DT Jamal Milan
Milan had to redshirt last year but was one of the big gets in the 2015 recruiting class. I think he could help spell some minutes this season and be a solid force on the line.
DE Henry McGrew
McGrew is one of the few non-seniors on the defensive line. He should be in a competition for the backup defensive end role but I still see him getting a lot of action this season.
LB Justice Williams
Another redshirt freshman that doesn’t have any experience but still has a high ceiling is Williams. He is extremely athletic and is going to be an interesting piece to move around the defense.
LB Mike Svetina
Svetina is a veteran linebacker that has the knowledge and ability to play linebacker at a high level. I am excited to see the change of pace he can bring to the linebacker core when he gets his reps.
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LB Austin Roberts
Roberts is only a sophomore but I could see him getting some minutes this season. He has a great upside and is your more typical linebacker body.
CB Darius Mosely
Mosely is one of the most experienced defensive backs on the team. His football knowledge will help him solidify his backup spot at cornerback this season.
SS Patrick Nelson
One of the recruits from the class of 2015 I wanted to see was Nelson. Due to injuries he had to sit out last season with a redshirt. Now I expect to see Nelson get a decent amount of snaps this season.
FS Darwyn Kelly
The free safety position is still up in the air and I think Kelly has a chance at eventually getting the nod. He is a talented player that has tremendous upside as a junior.
CB Ahmari Hayes
Hayes is a transfer from the class of 2016. He enrolled early and I expect him to make an impact on the team. I have him and Watkins in a battle for the starting role but Watkins winning by a narrow margin.