We continue our position previews with a look at Liberty’s safeties.
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Quinton Reese has become a leader for the Flames on the field and off of it, and he leads a group of safeties that should have enough depth to make an impact. Louisiana transfer Brandon Bishop has been added to a young nucleus.
Frontrunners
S 6 Brandon Bishop SR 6’0″ 200
Bishop emerged during the spring after transferring to Louisiana, and he caught everyone’s attention during the spring game with his pick-6. It appears he has been limited some during training camp, perhaps nursing a minor injury. Bishop was on the field for Wednesday’s open practice and seemingly going through drills without any limitations.
S 15 Brylan Green SO 5’9″ 170
Entering his second year in the program and now with the football team after spending most of the spring on the diamond with the baseball team, Green could push into a starting role this fall. He had a tremendous rookie season and should only build off of that. Green could also emerge as the team’s punt returner.
S 16 Quinton Reese SR 6’0″ 190
Reese has been a strong player in the secondary for Liberty the past couple of seasons, but now, with Javon Scruggs having exhausted his eligibility, Reese steps into a leadership role. It is a position that he seems to be thriving in. The Flames will also count on his production on the field this fall, as well.
Competition
S 29 A’Khori Jones SO 5’10” 195
Like Brylan Green, Jones had a strong true freshman campaign last year. With a year of experience under his belt, he should see more consistent playing time as he continues to fight for a spot in the secondary.
S 22 Jayden Sweeney R-FR 5’11” 185
Sweeney was a highly rated recruit out of high school, and he redshirted last year. He should find some playing time at safety this year.
S 2 Jaylon Jimmerson SR 5’10” 205
Jimmerson had his year of eligibility preserved last season as the decision was made to redshirt him. Now, he should be able to provide some depth and leadership for the Flames in the defensive backfield.
S 24 Preston Hodge JR 5’11” 195
The former JUCO transfer, Hodge joined Liberty last summer. He bounced around from corner and safety during the early part of the season before settling in at safety.
