Top Five Newcomers: Defense
The Oregon State Beavers will kick-off the 2016 season with the start of Fall Camp in a few weeks. Yesterday we took a look at five newcomers to watch on offense. Several newcomers are expected to make an impact, however there are several more young players on defense who could vie for early playing time. Here are five to watch.
1. Wesley Payne, Inside Linebacker
A new defensive coordinator for the Beavers means an increased emphasis on linebacker play. In fact, in Kevin Clune's scheme, the linebackers make the reads and call the plays for the defense. One of the most anticipated signees of the 2016 class, was Pima College transfer Wesley Payne who many expect to make a push for immediate playing time at middle linebacker.
2. Shemar Smith, Outside Linebacker
Miami, Florida athlete Shemar Smith arrived on campus in January weighing just shy of 200 pounds. He graduated high school early and was able to join his new Beaver family during winter term. The time with the team and training tables has paid off and Smith is currently listed at nearly 230 pounds. Great size for an outside linebacker, who could also be a pass rush specialist. Look for Smith to make the travel squad and potentially compete for playing time.
3. Landry Payne, Safety
Landry Payne, brother of Wesley played outside linebacker at Pima College and accounted for 54 tackles. Landry is a hard hitter and adds some maturity to the Oregon State defensive backfield.
4. Andrzej Hughes-Murray, Linebacker
Hughes-Murray may be the most physically ready true freshman to hit Prothro Practice Field in a long time. Honestly, I expected him to be an inside linebacker, but he is currently listed as a 6-foot-2, 237 pound outside linebacker. That speaks volumes to his athleticism.
5. Foursome of Freshmen, Defensive End
True freshmen Isaac Garcia, Kenny Turnier, Joah Robinett, and Shemiah Whitson are all listed as potential starters on the current summer depth chart that was released last week. The scary news is that a true freshmen will be starting at defensive end for the Beavers. The good news is that all are coming in physically ready to take the field. We couldn't pick just one until we are able to see them in August...all four need to be watched.