Nebraska Football: 2017 Projected 2-deep depth chart

Linebackers

Starting outside linebackers: Marcus Newby, Luke Gifford
Backups: Sedrick King, Alex Davis

Nebraska is very deep at the linebacker position. Marcus Newby is expected to be a leader at outside linebacker for the new-look defense. Last year he played in 12 games with four starts. He is versatile at both run stopping and dropping into coverage. Junior Luke Gifford saw extensive action in 2015 before getting hurt with his role reduced last season. With the new defense, he is sure to play a key role this year as a starter.

Both Sedrick King and Alex Davis were recruited as defensive ends but will make the transition to outside linebacker in the new scheme. What they lack in experience they have in talent and athleticism, so both will be pushing for quality playing time this fall.

Starting inside linebackers: Dedrick Young, Chris Weber
Backups: Avery Roberts, Mohamed Barry

Dedrick Young has played a prominent role his first two seasons, a starting outside linebacker in both. In his freshman year, he set a Nebraska record for most tackles by a true freshman. The other inside linebacker spot looks to be filled by senior Chris Weber. The former walk on will be called upon to be a leader in his final season. Last year he played in all 13 games as a reserve middle linebacker and on the special teams.

Mohamed Barry played in all 13 games last year and has experience playing both inside and outside linebacker. He will probably be a reserve inside linebacker this year while also continuing his role on special teams. True freshman Avery Roberts enrolled early in January and has quickly learned the Huskers’ new schemes. The former 4-star prospect was the number one player out of Delaware and could definitely earn a reserve spot and quality playing time.