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The first year for Gary Goff and McNeese saw the Cowboys run the football very well, including 1000+ yards from Deonta McMahon. The offensive line was effective at times, including critical performances in the final three wins of the season.
However, three of the starters from last year are now gone. So, Goff and his staff hit the transfer portal hard to fill those gaps and help them compete in the Southland Conference in 2023 with backs like D’Angelo Durham and others.
One thing to note about this year’s group: They’re going to be BIG.
Cole LeClair
LeClair is one of just two returning starters on the Cowboys’ offensive line. He came to McNeese from Valdosta State last year and knows the Gary Goff offense very well.
Standing at 6’3″ and 311 pounds, he’s only a sophomore with plenty of time to be an anchor on the line.
Dylan Dauzart
Dauzart comes down to Lake Charles from Alexandria and is the second returning starter on the line from 2022. After having appeared in 19 total games at McNeese, Dauzart is a guy that’s versatile and can play multiple positions on the line.
David Duvall
Duvall is probably one of the more interesting transfers for this group.
After spending three seasons at Northwest Mississippi CC, Duvall comes to Lake Charles after helping the Rangers to a 10-2 and a NJCAA Semifinals appearance. At 6’2″ and 305 pounds, he’s a strong option for Goff and this offense in 2023.
Jamall Franklin Jr
Although a true freshman, I think Franklin will be a player to watch.
Maybe he doesn’t start this season, but he will certainly make an impact. Standing at 6’7″ and 320 pounds, he’s going to be a brick wall to try and get past, which should help create holes for the running game as well as protect the quarterback. Built like a Trent Williams, Jamall Franklin Jr will be a name to watch at the tackle position in 2023.
Others to Watch
Jasper Friis is a Jackson State transfer from Germany that also has a lot of size at 6’6″, 330 lbs. Hayes Creel is a freshman from Scotlandville in Baton Rouge, which is a power program. Plus, another guy with a ton of size and strength.