Auburn Football: Defensive Depth Chart Projections – Weak Side Outside Linebacker

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Jan 6, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; Auburn Tigers players and head coach Gus Malzahn run onto the field before the 2014 BCS National Championship game against the Florida State Seminoles at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

JaViere Mitchell

Derrick Moncrief may be a little on the light side for a linebacker, and JaViere Mitchell is even lighter. Listed at 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, Mitchell has spent most of the last three seasons injured or on the bench, though he has increasingly played a bigger role on special teams.

Still, he’s got the talent and skill set to contribute on defense, or even to start.

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“He’s a physically strong linebacker,” former defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson said prior to the 2014 season. “I think he’s big enough and strong enough and physical enough and durable enough. … He tackles about as well as any other linebacker. If he can get bigger, it’s always better, as long as you don’t lose the ability to change direction.”

Johnson also said that if it weren’t for his injuries in 2013, he’s “not so sure he wouldn’t be one of my two starters inside,” ahead of Cassanova McKinzy or Kris Frost, both of which were good enough to consider leaving for the NFL following their junior seasons.

In 2014, Mitchell played in all 13 games and recorded 13 total tackles. From a production standpoint, that’s roughly the same as Tre’ Williams, so Mitchell could certainly make his case for an increased role this spring and fall.

In addition to Mitchell, a handful of newcomers are expected to be in the mix at WILL. Richard McBryde could have a future on the weak side as could Elijah Sullivan. However, given the expected depth at the position – three seniors and a junior listed here – both may be redshirt candidates.

Next: Recruiting: Updated Signing Day Odds & Projections

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