Which Red Raider will be a standout defender this season?

Last season there was no doubt that (now former) Red Raider linebacker Dakota Allen stood out among the rest on the defensive side for Texas Tech. He was the one everyone relied on to get the ball back to the offense. Rightfully so, Allen entered the 2018 NFL Draft and was selected by the Rams.

Now the question remains, who will take that spot in the limelight and show out for this year’s Red Raider defense?

Senior linebacker Jordyn Brooks

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Of course I put Brooks name at the top of the list. While playing in all 12 games last season, he led the Red Raiders in solo tackles with 43, assisted tackles with 41, and had 84 total tackles.

With Allen gone, Brooks is likely to shine in this position, if he hasn't already. Already having several awards under his belt, it seems likely that the senior linebacker is going to come out of the gate ready to play and lead the defense.

Senior defensive lineman Broderick Washington

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Washington has already established himself as a great lineman for Texas Tech. He appeared in all 12 games last season and led the line with 41 tackles, showing he’s capable of getting big time stops when needed.

He accomplished all of this in just his junior season. Forcing sacks and tackles for a loss is something Washington is credited for. In fact, he was second on the team in tackles for a loss. He is even more experienced now and has the opportunity to step up and be a leader that the Red Raiders need him to be.

Senior defensive back Douglas Coleman

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There are several corners who could definitely rise to the occasion of setting the defensive tone next season, from Desmon Smith to Damarcus Fields. However, Coleman has been in the Jones for three years now, he knows the grit that is Texas Tech defense. If anyone is going to stop the offense from forcing the ball down the field, it’s this guy right here.

As a junior, he appeared in all 12 games. He was third on the team in breakups with seven along with 30 tackles, a quarterback hurry and a big-time interception. Under the shadow of former Red Raider corner Jah’Shawn Johnson, Coleman stayed in the shadows a bit. Now it is his time to get to put fear into the opponents and step up for Texas Tech.