Auburn Football: 5 Players With Something to Prove in Spring Practice

Aug 30, 2014; Auburn, AL, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks receiver Cody Hollister (81) catches a pass as Auburn Tigers defensive back Jonathon Mincy (6) and Derrick Moncrief (24) make the tackle during the second half at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

Derrick Moncrief, S

Similar to Dampeer, Derrick Moncrief was a junior college transfer in the 2014 recruiting class ranked as the best player at his position. However, unlike Dampeer, Moncreif was expected to start in his first season on campus.

The 6-foot-2, 218-pounder went through the spring last season and entered fall camp as the favorite at boundary safety. Instead, Moncrief missed a handful of practices in the fall and sophomore Johnathan Ford took full advantage to win the top spot on the depth chart.

Moncrief played in all 13 games and made one start, but Ford never lost his hold on the spot and went on to lead the Tigers in tackles last season.

The Prattville, Alabama native played Ellis Johnson’s hybrid safety/linebacker Star position late in the season, which is a sign he might be a candidate to move to linebacker. Ford is back as well as Joshua Holsey, who started seven games at free safety last year, so Moncrief faces a stiff challenge to break through the starting lineup in the secondary.

The goal for Derrick Moncrief this spring is to prove himself as one of the best 11 defensive players on the roster. If he does, Will Muschamp and company will find a position for him.

Next: 2015 Auburn Football Schedule & Early Predictions

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