Losing your top corner and safety is never easy, but the good news for the Beavers is they return plenty of experience. If a few players step up alongside, Treston Decoud, the secondary could turn into a major strength for the defense. There are several exciting young players among this group that Beaver fans will likely accustomed to hearing about this season. This season will be one of growth for the OSU secondary — one that could easily move upward game by game.

Key Departures

· Larry Scott. Graduated. Final season marred by injuries. In seven games, he made 20 tackles and broke up three passes.

· Justin Strong. Transferred to Montana. Recorded 54 tackles in 2015 despite injuries, ranked fourth on the team in that category.

· Adam Soesman. Moved to linebacker prior to this season. Had 23 tackles, two for loss.

· Naji Patrick. Earned scholarship for senior season that saw him make 8 tackles and 1 pass breakup.