A New Era at the Line of Scrimmage
The defensive tackle room is undergoing a significant transformation as the program bids farewell to two former starters, Deven Eastern and Jalen Logan‑Redding. Both players exhausted their eligibility and left the lineup, creating a void that the coaching staff must now address.
Among the newcomers, Riley Sunram has emerged as the early favorite to claim a starting spot. The redshirt freshman from North Dakota brings an imposing frame — 6‑foot‑5 and 305 pounds — and has already logged meaningful snaps within the program, giving him a head start on the competition.
Another name generating buzz is Naquan Crowder, a transfer who arrives after stints at Division II Marshall. At 6‑foot‑2 and 330 pounds, Crowder is praised for his quick first step and ability to disrupt both the run and pass. Coaches say his spring and fall performances have put him in the mix for a starting role.
Veteran depth will be provided by Jaylin Hicks, a redshirt sophomore who is expected to rotate primarily in passing situations, and Xion Chapman, an FIU transfer who is working his way back from injury. Both are listed at 6‑foot‑3 and 305 pounds, and they could see increased action as the unit experiments with different combinations.
The younger talent includes redshirt freshmen Jay’Quan Stubbs and Mo Saine, who arrived as part of the 2025 recruiting class, as well as true freshman Howie Johnson from Forest Lake. Though still developing, the coaching staff believes these players could surprise and add unexpected depth.
The loss of Eastern and Logan‑Redding removes a combined three years of starting experience, but the blend of seasoned transfers and promising newcomers creates a high‑risk, high‑reward scenario. If the newcomers can gel quickly, the defensive line could exceed expectations and help the team rebound in the upcoming season.