8. LB Cortez McDowell
A native of Locust Grove, McDowell, a junior, has seen most of his impact on special teams thus far, but Jalen Reeves-Maybin’s ejection in the opener and recent injury have given him plenty of opportunities to see the field on defense this year. He’s responded with 21 tackles and a pair of TFLs so far on the season. JRM can’t fully be replaced, but McDowell definitely softens the blow when he’s out, and he’ll be in line to be a potential starter in 2016.
