It's tough to identify needs before seeing the 2017 kids practice, but here's an early ranking of needs for the 2018. Let me know what you think .
1. Linebacker - I'm not differentiating between Sam & Mike because we are equally desperate at both positions. After this season, we'll be replacing at least 3 of our top 5 linebackers. If Kirkland Jr declares for the NFL, we'll be replacing 4. We did sign a few linebackers in the 2017 class, but none of them were considered elite by the recruiting services. They may turn out to be legit, but I wouldn't bet on it. We need to sign two or three elite prospects at linebacker in the 2018 class.
2. Cornerback - We are in need of an upgrade in athleticism at this position and I don't think we have a future All-SEC corner on the roster. A stud true freshman could be one of our starters in 2018. Some people think Shamburger is the answer, but there's a reason why he didn't make the cut at Bama (they signed 4 corners). Also, I've read that Shamburger is more of a nickel. Either way, we need to add an elite cornerback in this class.
3. Defensive End - Great defenses have guys in their front 4 who can rush the passer. We don't have that right now. With Phillips trending toward DT and Kongbo graduating, we are dangerously close to finding ourselves desperately thin in 2018. I do think Taylor can develop into a good DE, but we need a lot of help.
There's plenty of other needs on our roster, but I think these are the top 3.
1. Linebacker - I'm not differentiating between Sam & Mike because we are equally desperate at both positions. After this season, we'll be replacing at least 3 of our top 5 linebackers. If Kirkland Jr declares for the NFL, we'll be replacing 4. We did sign a few linebackers in the 2017 class, but none of them were considered elite by the recruiting services. They may turn out to be legit, but I wouldn't bet on it. We need to sign two or three elite prospects at linebacker in the 2018 class.
2. Cornerback - We are in need of an upgrade in athleticism at this position and I don't think we have a future All-SEC corner on the roster. A stud true freshman could be one of our starters in 2018. Some people think Shamburger is the answer, but there's a reason why he didn't make the cut at Bama (they signed 4 corners). Also, I've read that Shamburger is more of a nickel. Either way, we need to add an elite cornerback in this class.
3. Defensive End - Great defenses have guys in their front 4 who can rush the passer. We don't have that right now. With Phillips trending toward DT and Kongbo graduating, we are dangerously close to finding ourselves desperately thin in 2018. I do think Taylor can develop into a good DE, but we need a lot of help.
There's plenty of other needs on our roster, but I think these are the top 3.
