I definitely think the defense will improve next year, even without Shazier and Roby. Before I discuss that, I am only going to pause to say that we really needed them to be better this year to win a title...I don't think the offense is going to be to the level they need to be to win a title next year after losing our OL. Anyways, on to 2014.
First, the DL will be even dirtier next year...I'm pretty sure Washington was playing hurt all year and he has all offseason to get healthy and play at the level he did in the spring game. I want to see him play inside with Bennett, with Carter and Hale rotating in some, especially against pro style offenses. Spence will be out for two games but with another year, he will only get better...add that to the fact that teams will not be able to double him with Bosa (who I feel is our best defensive player) at the other end. Spence, Bennett, Washington, and Bosa makes for a great core. Then Marcus played great this season and he will be a force on 3rd downs at bare minimum. Miller also will be a steady performer in the rotation. Plus next year Hill will be healthy and he played very well in the time he got this year. It will be interesting to see if Munger comes back healthy, and if Tyquan Lewis and Sprinkle develop into players. As of now, I see both Jalyn Holmes and Dylan Thompson redshirting to develop but if we land Solomon Thomas, he could push for time...he is that good and physically ready to go.
At LB, it is wide open in my eyes...Perry has done nothing to assure himself a starting spot, nor has Grant. They might have the edge due to more playing time but the spots are open. I think the jury might still be out on Perry, as he is still very young but I just think Grant has had his chance and it has past him. I hope I'm wrong but I just don't see the light clicking in his senior year. Obviously, the hope is that Mitchell and Johnson turn out to be the studs we thought they were after another year of development and time in the system. I really think at least Mitchell will be. I don't really have much hope for Camren Williams honestly. Then all the talent we have coming in will play a role...my pick is McMillan to play right away, he has the mental part of the game down and also is physically ready. I think Hubbard redshirts to put on some muscle and to get adjusted to the college level. Berger redshirts to bulk up and recover from his injury fully. I could certainly see Booker blowing up and playing, he is a wildcard.
At DB, I really see us improving...there is just too much talent. I think there will be an intense battle primarily between Burrows and Apple for the spot across from Grant...my early prediction is Burrows. Conley is certainly intriguing there and I could see him at the Star potentially. I think Grant has the talent and will be solid his senior year. I see Bell at FS and Powell at SS, and I think we will be vastly improved there as those guys develop and become comfortable in those spots. I will be interested to see if Thompson makes noise at safety, along with possibly Worley/Lee at Star. The guys coming in are also going to push hard for time. Webb is a blanket at corner and his coverage skills alone could get him on the field. Lattimore is crazy athletic and great in coverage but he might need a redshirt year to learn to play the position. Erick Smith is incredibly gifted and might end up being the best DB in this class...his ability and willingness to tackle also puts him in the conversation for immediate playing time. Simply put, there is too much talent at this position not to improve but we just need a coach to get them in the right position to really be dominant.
EDIT: Also forgot to add Schutt as someone who will hopefully be healthy at DT and heavily involved next year.
