Defensive Line
The competition for the third starting defensive line position is between DJ Davidson, Ryder Anderson, Jordan Phillips, and Jordan Riley. Dexter Lawrence and "Nacho" Rakeem Nunez-Roches are the top two linemen. Jordan Phillips, a veteran with 120 games and 62 starts, will likely play on passing downs. Ryder Anderson fits as a DE in a 4-3 setup. Both Jordan Phillips and Jordan Riley are run stoppers, and one needs to step up. Phillips is expected to get the most playing time initially, but as he turns 32, his best days may be behind him. Upgrading this group is ideal, but given their draft status, the hope is they will be serviceable as a collective unit.
Backup Linebacker
Behind starting linebackers Bobby Okereke and Micah McFadden, Isaiah Simmons, Darrian Beavers, Matthew Adams, and Carter Coughlin are competing. Simmons, re-signed late, pairs well with McFadden but has positional issues. Beavers, recovering from an ACL tear, is a wildcard and may contribute on special teams. Adams and Coughlin excel on special teams but not on defense. If Beavers returns to form, he might leapfrog Adams or Coughlin on the depth chart.
Starting Cornerback
Cor'Dale Flott, Nick McCloud, and Trey Hawkins III are vying for the starting cornerback spot. Flott is the current frontrunner despite McCloud's better performance. Hawkins, who started last season, has not maintained that level and is less likely to regain a starting role.
Slot Cornerback
Andru Phillips and Darnay Holmes are competing for the slot cornerback position. The team prefers Phillips, a third-round pick, but he may struggle initially. Holmes, with 54 games and 11 starts, could take over if Phillips falters. Phillips will get the first opportunity, but Holmes might see snaps if needed.
Third Safety
The battle for the third safety spot involves Dane Belton, Jalen Mills, and Gervarrius Owens. Belton is a playmaker with run defense issues. Mills, a former cornerback, is better suited for nickel/dime packages. Owens, a 7th-round pick, spent most of last season on the practice squad. Belton is likely to stay as a backup, and Mills' veteran presence is valuable. Owens needs to perform well to make Mills expendable.
OTAs Update: Practice 6, 7 & 8
Friday's practice saw the defense dominate, with pass breakups from Cor'Dale Flott and Jalen Mills, and an interception by Deonte Banks. Dexter Lawrence disrupted the backfield and batted down passes. Darius Slayton, Bryce Ford-Wheaton, and Jalin Hyatt scored touchdowns. Monda
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