We're a week and a half away from the return of Mississippi State football, and we're breaking down the position rooms on the Bulldogs' 2024 roster. Next up are State's linebackers, who have to replace some superstars but still have a lot of promise.
Here's a look at State's LB corps...
Who makes up Mississippi State's linebacker room?
After waiting his turn behind the legendary Bookie Watson and Jett Johnson, John Lewis becomes the leader of the LB room. He makes the move from being a stand-up edge rusher back to his more natural position of inside LB. South Carolina-transfer Stone Blanton joins, bringing someone with experience starting in the SEC to the room. Young pass-rushers Donterry Russell and Ty Cooper will play off the edge at Jack LB. Nic Mitchell and talented sophomores Zakari Tillman and Javae Gilmore should provided depth while JUCO-transfer Branden Jennings looks to challenge for a starting role. And veteran JP Purvis should once again be a factor after missing the spring with injury.
Reasons for optimism in Mississippi State's linebackers
The LB corps looks to be the most promising on defense. John Lewis seems like a prime breakout candidate now that he's back at inside LB, and he's got an experienced SEC starter alongside him in Stone Blanton. Nic Mitchell and Brandon Jennings have shown flashes throughout the offseason that suggests they'll be valuable pieces to have. Donterry Russell looks like he could be a great pass-rusher, which State badly needs. And considering the talent level of some of the younger LBs, there should be quality depth here.
Reasons for concern with Mississippi State's linebackers
Though the talent level and depth in the LB room seems to be good, State is still having to replace the best LB duo in the SEC. Bookie Watson and Jett Johnson were two of the best to ever come through Starkville. There's bound to be at least a slight drop-off when it comes to the quality of the starters. And considering those two rarely left the field, many of the LBs State will be relying on this year haven't yet played major roles in the Bulldog defense.