Ole Miss Football: 5 most important players to watch during spring 2018

One of the spots that Ole Miss loses the most talent is along the defensive line, especially on the edges. The Rebels lose key defensive lineman like Breeland Speaks and Marquis Haynes, that were huge pieces of the pass rush.

However, the Rebels do have the talent and flat out athleticism to replace that production, it’s just a matter of execution. The middle of the defensive line needs to be in top shape to lead the way, with rising juniors Josiah Coatney and Benito Jones.

One player to watch along the defensive line for the Rebels in spring practice is former three-star JUCO transfer defensive end Markel Winters. This should be Winters’ last year in Oxford, and his last chance to make an impact for a possible NFL career in the future.

A few other players will surround Winters in the defensive line rotation to make up for the losses of both Speaks and Haynes. Notably, Victor Evans and Ryder Anderson need to step up for this Ole Miss defensive line to be effective in 2018.