There are always a few who you worry about, but then they show up and show out, and make you feel better about next year:

1. Smitherman. Nobody was expecting much from him. He basically had been a non-contributor over his career. But he played great all year and is ready to lock down a corner starting spot for 2019. He stepped up big in 2018!


2. Dantzler. Everybody was high on him. But could he be a shutdown corner or was it hype? He answered the question and is ready for a big 2019.


3. Lee Autry. We basically lose all our defensive tackles that contribute (Hoyett, Thomas, Simmons, Brown). Can Autry do anything? In 2018 he at least proved he is a piece to utilize on the interior for 2019. Good job big fella. Now keep getting better.


4. Errol Thompson. Had proven to be a run-stopping thumper. Can he pursue sideline to sideline in this league? Can he perform in pass coverage? He answered both questions in 2018, and proved to be one of the best all-around linebackers in the league. He is the heart and soul of what we have returning in 2019. Athletic, tough, and smart. A future NFL player.

5. Tyre Phillips. Phillips and Champion both redshirted out of JUCO. Phillips played well in 2018 and is poised for a bigger role in 2019.

We need Willie Gay, Kobe Jones, Marcus Murphy, and Whop to continue to progress. All have the potential to be game changers in 2019. CJ Morgan will also be key. And Guidry and Osirus Mitchell both show flashes of great ability. They are key to improving the passing game.