Alabama State working to add depth to defensive line

MONTGOMERY, Alabama  —  Alabama State had one of the top-ranked defenses in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) last year, but that did not keep the coaching staff from recruiting several players to play along the defensive front. They have made it a priority to build some depth along the defensive front during preseason camp.

"The offensive and defensive lines are where you have to be strong and do what you need to do there during the game and we are especially looking at our depth along the defensive front," Head Coach Reggie Barlow said. "Derrick Billups is a mainstay at the defensive tackle position. We believe with him being in there and with him being a consistent player, he can dominate inside."

"Justin Mitchell is a guy that has the potential, but has been a little bit inconsistent. Then there are the younger guys like Jafar Mann, Shane Woodget and some more guys that don't have the experience but we're expecting them to step up and be able to contribute for us."

The Hornets have five freshmen listed at a defensive line position, and the coaching staff sees a lot of opportunity available for the freshmen to compete immediately for playing time and to help shore up some depth across the defensive front.

"We signed some big guys up front and we have been real impressed with Malik Reid at defensive end," Barlow said. "With his size he is big enough to play inside. He is a big kid and strong off the line and we know we will use him this year."

ASU has both of their starting defensive ends returning from a year ago, and that position may actually be one of the deepest on the team.

"Our defensive ends give us the depth and experience we need," Barlow said. "(Edward) Mosley, (Chris) Terry, (Raymond) Heningburg are guys that have played and they have the experience. So we do have some depth there with guys like (Antonio) Humphreys and Sejean Hart are guys we are hoping will step up and help us out along with Carlton Jones who is mister consistent. He has been a starter for us for three years and is having a good camp for us and is doing things he needs to do."

The Hornets will take Wednesday off, but will begin their two-a-day schedule Thursday, Aug. 8 with their first practice beginning at 9 a.m. followed by their first night practice of the season at 7 p.m.

COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION