The linebacker corps suffered another huge void just recently when middle linebacker
Brashton Satele, one of just two returning starters from last year, was knocked out for the 2009 season. Despite the losses, the Warriors have a slew of returning players with experience, whom defensive coordinator Cal Lee believes are more than capable of performing on the field.
“You never replace players as good as those guys, Lee said, “but you want to fill the shoes as much as possible. I love their work ethic. They're working hard every day to be as good as the guys that left. And I don't think we lose that much as far as speed goes. All our linebackers run really well. Our speed is as good as it was last year.”
Satele's absence paves the way for junior
Mana Lolotai to grab a starting spot at the middle linebacker position. Lolotai was a special teams regular last year and also saw time as a reserve. Redshirt junior
Jake Heun, moves from running back to middle linebacker, and will serve as the backup.
“I think what you look for in a middle linebacker is leadership and those guys are showing good leadership so far,” Lee said.
However, with Soares not at a full 100 percent, it could be a breakout year for sophomore
Corey Paredes, who is in line for a starting spot outside.
“I think people don't realize who he is” Lee said. “They know Blaze, they know Brashton, they know RJ. I think Corey is a guy that will come out before it's said and done.”
Returnees Po'okela Ahmad and
Josh Rice should also contend for playing time. Among the newcomers this year is freshman
George Daily-Lyles, who was the league's defensive player of the year at California powerhouse Long Beach Poly High School.
*will miss the 2009 season
-UH-
