Oregon’s linebackers will be worth watching throughout the fall, especially with Jim Leavitt’s defensive expertise.
Leading in tackles and sacks as a freshman in the 2016 season, sophomore Troy Dye seems to align well with the coaching staff and their drive for success this season.
Dye already has a strong relationship with head coach Willie Taggart.
“You can go talk to him; you can go into his office and hang out with him,” Dye said. “At the end of the day you have to know your head coach, and as long as you’re having fun with him you know it’s going to be a good year.”
Key linebackers include Dye, La’Mar Winston Jr., Jimmie Swain, and A.J. Hotchkins.
Winston Jr., a recruit from Central Catholic, transitioned from inside to outside linebacker his freshman year, and it appears he will go into the 2017 season remaining on the outside. Despite only playing in 11 of last year’s games with five tackles, Winston Jr. was rated the number eight athlete in the nation by rivals.com. This is only one of many examples as to why Winston Jr. will be one to watch.
Finishing the 2016 season as Oregon’s second-leading tackler with a career-high of 13 tackles against Arizona State, sophomore Jimmie Swain boosts the linebacker depth, which is what the Ducks have been missing following last season’s struggle with injuries.
A.J. Hotchkins is an undersized but strong middle linebacker who provides some age to the group. The senior shined in the spring game with seven solo tackles, and after starting in four games last season he is ready for a permanent starting role.
With Dye’s leadership, the defensive second line is expected to be much stronger this season.
Projected Depth Chart:
OLB: Jimmie Swain, Sr., Jonah Moi, Sr.
ILB: Troy Dye, So., Kaulana Apelu, Jr.
ILB: A.J. Hotchkins, Sr., Isaac Slade-Matautia, Fr.
OLB: Justin Hollins, Jr., La”Mar Winston, Jr.
Follow Daphne Martin on Twitter @daaphnemartin