Washington Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017
Linebackers
Starting inside linebackers: Azeem Victor, Keishawn Bierria
Backups: DJ Beavers, Ben Burr-Kirven
The Huskies are set at inside linebacker in their 3-4 look. Both starters from last year return and were a big reason as to why Washington had the best defense in the Pac-12 and a top-20 unit nationally. Azeem Victor and Keishawn Bierria are both All-Pac-12 candidates in 2017 and it’s not too difficult to tell why.
The presumed starters finished in the top three on the team in tackles last season — tied for second — and both are back as senior leaders. They combined for 136 total tackles, eight for loss and two sacks, but will have even more impressive senior campaigns. Sophomore DJ Beavers had a strong first year and junior Ben Burr-Kirven also surpassed the 40-tackle mark. This unit is strong.
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Starting outside linebackers: Connor O’Brien, Amandre Williams
Backups: Camilo Eifler, Tevis Bartlett
On the outside, senior Connor O’Brien is the only returning starter. He did finish just 13th on the team in total tackles last season and may not have the track record as some of the guys on the inside, but having a returning presence will be extremely beneficial. He will be joined by stud freshman Amandre Williams. The redshirt freshman has been impressing this offseason.
Another freshman, Camilo Eifler could be in that playing rotation as well as he looks to be in the two-deep at outside backer. Junior Tevis Bartlett is a strong blitzing linebacker, finishing with nine tackles for loss and four sacks last season.