Ole Miss Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017

Defensive Line

Starting tackles: Breeland Speaks, Benito Jones
Backups: Ross Donelly, Austrian Robinson

The defensive tackles for Ole Miss can be good in 2017 but depth could be an issue. With new defensive coordinator Wesley McGriff the line overall should improve. In 2016, pressure was evident but it never converted to sacks or turnovers. With a new coach the sky’s the limit for the talent on the line.

Speaks was primed for a breakout year in 2016 but it just never quite materialized. With that said, reports around the program state he has rededicated himself and is all in for the season. Speaks can be a force, he proved it his freshman year and in the past spring. He’ll be counted on to help lead the defense and he has stepped up so far. Jones was a freshman surprise, starting four times and playing in every game. He’s smaller than a typical defensive lineman but he’s quick off the ball.

Donelly and Robinson are unproven talents to this point but will be counted on in the rotation.

Starting ends: Marquis Haynes, Garrald McDowell
Backups: Qaadir Sheppard, Victor Evans, Charles Wiley

The true star of the defense and perhaps its best player, is Marquis Haynes. He almost left for the NFL, and thank goodness for Ole Miss he stayed because they’ll need him. Haynes is a stud at rushing the QB and a true leader for the team. His effort and energy is critical for the young defense.

Garrald McDowell came to Ole Miss as a highly-touted freshman and has yet to really make an impact. That said, this is his opportunity to really blossom as a player. If he is even just solid and dependable, then he’ll make a difference for the team. The true unknown is Syracuse transfer Qaadir Sheppard. Sheppard sat out 2016 under transfer rules and could prove to be an excellent player in 2017. He had a game high two sacks in the spring game.