Since head coach Hugh Freeze and defensive coordinator Scott Symons came to Liberty, they have focused on upgrading the talent level at the linebacker position. They have accomplished that feat primarily through the transfer portal. Last year, it was seniors Storey Jackson and Rashaad Harding who joined the program. Those two led the team in tackles in 2021, and now Liberty will look to find a replacement under new linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator Josh Aldridge.
As the Flames prepare to kick off another spring camp on March 4, here is a look at the linebackers:
LINEBACKERS
Returners
Ahmad Walker (So), Tyren Dupree (R-Jr), Carl Poole (R-So), Jerome Jolly, Jr (R-So), Micah Glaize (Jr), Cade Robinson (Sr), Joseph Carter (So)
The Buzz: Walker is undoubtedly the top returner at linebacker. He started three games as a true freshman and finished the year with 37 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and 3 sacks. He has proven the ability to be one of the top players on the defense, and the Flames will count on him to take a big step forward in 2022.
Dupree was also a fixture in the rotation at linebacker, playing in all 13 games and finishing with 31 tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss. Poole, Jolly, and Glaize could all be counted on for larger roles this fall.
Newcomers
Mike Smith, Jr (Jr), Jordan Norwood (Fr)
Smith is a JUCO transfer who was highly rated, and the Flames expect him to come in and make an immediate impact. He will have a big opportunity this spring and summer to stake his claim as a starter after averaging 10 tackles per game last year at the JUCO level.
Norwood will also have a chance to play immediately after joining the Flames from Colorado.
Gone
Storey Jackson (102 tackles, 13 TFLs, 7 sacks, 1 interception, 5 QB hurries, 3 PBUs)
Rashaad Harding (80 tackles, 8 TFLs, 3 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 QB hurry)
