Auburn Football: Defensive Depth Chart Projections – Safety

Nov 30, 2013; Auburn, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback AJ McCarron (10) is sacked by the Auburn Tigers defense during the second quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Stephen Roberts and Markell Boston

Two players that should see an increased role next season are 2014 recruits Stephen Roberts and Markell Boston. Both were in line to make big contributions last year, but were slowed by injuries in August.

“We were really pleased with Boston, then he got hurt,” former defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson said during fall camp in 2014. “We were really pleased with Roberts, then he got hurt. That’s hard for a freshman, because when you are in the middle of installing things and they miss it, it can really be hard for them to catch up. I have confidence Roberts will get back in the swing of things, and he’ll be right back in it when he gets healthy.”

As a backup free safety, Roberts recorded three total tackles in 11 appearances as a true freshman and forced a fumble against Louisiana Tech. At 5-foot-11 and 180 pounds, Roberts is a little on the small side for an ideal safety, but he’ll continue to develop physically.

Boston didn’t see the field a true freshman in 2014. A right leg injury forced him to redshirt instead. Listed at 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, Boston has the model frame for a safety, and he should fit well into defensive backs coach Travaris Robinson’s rotation.

He hasn’t had a chance to prove it yet, but the Tigers believe Boston has big play ability. As a senior at East Coweta High School in Georgia, Boston recorded 105 tackles and four interceptions – two of which were returned for touchdowns.

Next: Tim Irvin and Jordan Colbert