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Florida Football: Projected post-spring 2019 depth chart

By Briley Hughes

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 17: Head coach Dan Mullen of the Florida Gators walks off the field during the second half of their game against the Idaho Vandals at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on November 17, 2018 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images)
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 17: Head coach Dan Mullen of the Florida Gators walks off the field during the second half of their game against the Idaho Vandals at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on November 17, 2018 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
(Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images) /

Linebackers

Starting middle linebacker: David Reese
Backups: Ventrell Miller

David Reese – the undisputed senior leader for this defense – has high expectations for next season: “I want to win the East and I want to win an SEC Championship. That’s my main two goals right now. Then whatever else after that happens.” His teammates – some of whom call him “Mr. Reese” – and coaches know how valuable Reese’s effort and leadership is to this defense, but he’s also their best run-stopper.

If he can stay healthy, Reese will absolutely anchor the Gators’ linebacker unit.

Starting weak-side linebacker: Amari Burney
Backups: James Houston

Todd Grantham seems to have narrowed down where the talented Burney should spend most of his snaps. Burney – who has the ability to play linebacker, defensive back or safety – seems positioned for a breakout season at the linebacker position. Because of his athleticism and positional flexibility, Gator Nation can expect to see Burney all over the field. Importantly, his pass-coverage will improve a unit that struggled to cover tight ends last season.

Additionally, James Houston still has time to push for more opportunities. If Burney had played at nickel instead of linebacker, Houston would have been the expected starter. With that in mind, Houston is an explosive, athletic player who has a nose for stuffing the run – on doubt a valuable asset the Gators will utilize in the upcoming season.

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