Defensive Line
Starting tackle: Poona Ford
Backup: Jordan Elliott
Texas plays more of a 3-4 look with a nickel in place of a fourth linebacker. That means that the defensive tackle position is vital. Poona Ford, heading into his senior year, returns as a force in the middle of the defense. He finished fourth on the team with 54 tackles last season and added 5.5 for loss.
Unfortunately, he didn’t record a single sack, which could, and should, change this season. He’s going to be backed up by talented sophomore Jordan Elliott. Although he had just eight tackles, and 1.5 for loss, last season in limited time, he has the potential to be a star on the defensive side of the ball.
Starting ends: Malcolm Roach, Chris Nelson
Backups: Charles Omenihu, D’Andre Christmas
Junior Chris Nelson is returning as a starter at defensive end. He finished with 45 total tackles, six for loss and 1.5 sacks in 2016, but it seems as if he’s just scratching the surface. Charles Omenihu also has starting experience and will start the season in a backup role. He had three sacks in 2016.
Malcolm Roach had 33 total tackles, eight for loss and three sacks as a true freshman and could be in for a breakout campaign. The talent is definitely there and he could be a staple of the defensive line for the next couple of years. D’Andre Christmas is a serviceable backup who recorded a sack last season.