Auburn Football: 5 Players With Something to Prove in Spring Practice
Tre’ Williams, LB
A few weeks ago, I projected that Tre’ Williams would emerge as the starter at weak side outside linebacker in new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp’s multiple 4-3 defense.
RELATED: Auburn Football – Defensive Depth Chart Projections, Weak Side Outside Linebacker
The projection isn’t much of a stretch – Williams was a five-star prospect ranked among the best high school linebackers in the 2014 recruiting class and played in all 13 games with one start as a true freshman. But, it’s sure to be one of the most competitive position battles leading up to the 2015 season.
Even with the recent report that reserve linebacker Anthony Swain has left the Auburn football program, Williams must beat out veteran Justin Garrett and special teams standout JaViere Mitchell (and possibly someone like Derrick Moncrief that may see a position change) for the top spot on the depth chart alongside returning starters Cassanova McKinzy and Kris Frost.
Williams is the most talented linebacker on the roster and has all the physical tools to be a starter for the Tigers as a sophomore. However, he struggled to grasp former DC Ellis Johnson’s defensive playbook, and made plenty of “freshman mistakes.”
With Muschamp now in charge, Williams must start all over learning the calls, blitzes and coverages. If Williams proves he can handle the mental aspect of the position, he’ll start.
Next: Xavier Dampeer