Illini Inquirer Podcast Ep. 136: Leman previews 2020 Illini LBs

Incoming linebackers previewed

Illini Inquirer football writer Jeremy Werner took a deeper look at the 2020 Illini LBs in a recent article. Jeremy also spoke with linebackers coach Kane Eakin, and several linebackers, about expectations for the upcoming season.

Eakin talked about the leadership that senior linebacker Jake Hansen brings to the team. He also talked about the development of some of the younger linebackers like Seth Coleman and Tarique Barnes.

Coleman, Barnes, and fellow sophomore Shammond Cooper all played in at least 10 games last season. Coleman even started the final four games of the year.

Jeremy writes that Coleman is expected to take “the next step” this season. He also believes that if Barnes continues to develop, he could be a “force” at the middle linebacker position.

Jeremy also notes that the Illini added three linebackers to the roster this offseason. These newcomers are Bryce Barnes, Cooper Davis, and Calvin Hart Jr.

Bryce Barnes and Davis are both redshirt freshmen. Hart is a true freshman. It is unclear how much playing time these newcomers will receive, however it is something to watch during fall camp.

Werner concludes the article by saying that the linebacker position is one of the most experienced positions on the Illini defense. He also writes that the Illini could have one of the top linebacker corps in the Big Ten this season.