Texas Football: 5 best players on the 2017 roster
The Horns do have quite a bit of talent returning at linebacker in 2017. Alongside outside linebacker Breckyn Hager, Malik Jefferson and Anthony Wheeler also return to lead the Texas defense. The return of those three linebackers makes Herman’s job much easier since he knows he can have confidence at one level of defense at least.
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Hager led the team in total tackles, with 65, and was second on the team in sacks, only behind Jefferson, with 6.0. He also forced one fumble last season. That was an enormous progression from his freshman year, where Hager saw limited playing time.
Another progression like the one Hager saw in 2016 would put him not only among the best defensive players on the Texas roster but among the best linebackers in the Big 12. He’s fighting for a chance to eventually secure a spot in the NFL Draft.
At 6-foot-3, 230 pounds, Hager has the size needed to compete among the best players in the nation and get recognition from NFL teams.