The latest preseason camp in Columbia offered a rare glimpse into the Tigers' evolving lineup, with open practices drawing local media and giving a clearer picture of how the coaching staff plans to address lingering depth questions.
At the helm of the offense, Austin Simmons has secured the starting quarterback role, providing a steady presence under center as the team evaluates its skill positions.
The right tackle spot is generating the most buzz, as Logan Reichert and Luke Work trade starter reps in a direct competition, while Jack Lange and Colin Sorensen loom as potential reinforcements.
Left guard duties are similarly unsettled, with Tristan Wilson and Mississippi State transfer Zack Owens vying for the first‑team slot; Wilson's recent weight gain appears to have nudged the coaching staff toward favoring him.
Defensive Adjustments
Defensively, the line promises depth, highlighted by Daeden Hopkins emerging as a standout after a physical transformation during the offseason, while Jaden Jones, Baylor transfer Kamauryn Morgan, Demarcus Johnson and Miami import Malik Bryant offer versatile options in the end‑rotation.
At cornerback, Nick DeLoach Jr. surprised many by earning a first‑team designation on day one, joining Jahlil Florence, Sione Laulea and Cam Keys in a fluid secondary group.
Linebacker positions remain open as well, with Robert Woodyard Jr. battling Nicholas Rodriguez for starting snaps, while a host of other candidates — Jeremiah Beasley, Dante McClellan, Brian Huff, JJ Bush, Keenan Harris and Bobby Washington — look to carve out roles.
Overall, the camp’s intensity suggests the Tigers are methodically testing every contested spot, aiming to solidify a roster that can compete at the highest level when the season begins.