Liberty will have to find replacements for the valuable contributions made by Skyler Thomas, Cedric Stone, and Benjamin Alexander at safety as their eligibility has been exhausted. Co-Defensive Coordinator and safeties coach Jack Curtis does have several key pieces that return to help fill in those holes.
As the Flames prepare to kick off another spring camp on March 4, here is a look at the safeties:
SAFETIES
Returners
Javon Scruggs (Sr), Juawan Treadwell (Sr), Quinton Reese (R-So), Rocket Rahimi (R-So), Jaylon Jimmerson (Jr), Aaron Lovins (R-So), Tim Coutras (R-Fr), Daniel Darko (R-Sr), Sam Guridy (R-Fr), Chance Smith (R-So)
The Buzz: Javon Scruggs returns for one final go round as Liberty’s team leader, especially on the defensive side of the ball. He has provided leadership, to go along with his on field production, for the duration of his career. He may be a little undersized, but that hasn’t kept him from being one of the Flames’ top players.
Juawan Treadwell also returns, as he looks to continue to provide strong play at the safety position. Quinton Reese missed much of the 2021 campaign due to an injury, but he returns in 2022 and should see a rise in playing time and production. Rocket Rahimi and Jaylon Jimmerson are entering their second year in the program and should continue to see their contributions increase.
Newcomers
Jayden Sweeney (Fr), Brylan Green (Fr), A’Khori Jones (Fr)
Jayden Sweeney has a chance to fight for playing time immediately as he joins the Flames from Alabama. Brylan Green is a two-sport athlete, who intends on playing both baseball and football during his time at Liberty.
Gone
Skyler Thomas (55 tackles, 4 TFLs, 2 sacks, 3 PBUs)
Cedric Stone (44 tackles, 0.5 TFLs, 3 PBUs, 1 forced fumble)
Benjamin Alexander (24 tackles)
