T.J. Holloman an anchor for USC LBs, Allen-Williams intrigues
This projected as, probably, the most solid unit on the team, but that was before news broke that Skai Moore would miss all of 2016. T.J. Holloman is the anchor in the middle, and the rest of the depth chart on the inside is stocked with solid veterans such as Larenz Bryant and Jonathan Walton. Bryson Allen-Williams should be in that mix and could help the pass rush or work as a strongside when the team uses three linebackers. Freshman TJ Brunson, from Richland Northeast, could be in line to help as well.
2016 Linebackers (listed alphabetically)
Sr. Larenz Bryant (6-foot, 217 pounds) – The one-time spur linebacker has seen time here and there on defense through his career and mostly played special teams.
Sr. T.J. Holloman (6-2, 240) – A part-time starter his first two seasons, he took over starting in the middle the final nine games after Moore moved outside.
Sr. Skai Moore (6-2, 218) – After leading the team in interceptions and tackles, the best player on the defense will miss 2016 with a neck injury.
Sr. Jonathan Walton (6-0, 236) – A starter for six games each of the past two seasons, he chipped in as a fullback and could get more defensive work going forward.
Jr. Bryson Allen-Williams (6-0, 230) – Coaches have raved about his potential through the spring, and he could split time between a classic linebacker role and pass rusher.
So. Jalen Dread (5-10, 214) – Mostly a special teams player, he was named most improved freshman on defense his first spring in the program.
RFr. Sherrod Pittman (6-1, 218) – A broken leg in high school cost him his senior year, but he was a top-10 player at his position as a recruit.
Fr. TJ Brunson (6-1, 225) – The local product made 140 tackles as a senior at Richland Northeast, despite a hip injury, and could contribute somewhere in 2016.
Lettermen Lost
Ernest Hawkins
Skai Moore (injured, out for season)
Preseason Depth Chart
SLB – Bryson Allen-Williams
MLB – Jonathon Walton
Or T.J. Holloman
WLB – T.J. Holloman
Or Larenz Bryant