Logo from sportslogos.net
Over the last several season, Louisiana has had success in the secondary. Players like Tracy Walker, Percy Butler, and others have made it to the NFL while grooming the next group.
Now, the Cajuns will have a new secondary group with key names like Bralen Trahan, Eric Gator, and more departing.
Here’s what Louisiana will have in their defensive backfield:
Caleb Anderson
This will be Anderson’s fourth season with the Cajuns’ defense. He had four tackles in 2020, redshirted in 2021, and had 13 tackles in one start during 2022.
He stands at 6’3″, 203 pounds, which is a strong frame for a defensive back. He’s had playing time in the past, but nothing like what he will see in 2023. The coaching staff will depend on Anderson to be one of the leaders of the secondary, so we’ll see if he can deliver on that.
Amir McDaniel
McDaniel made some key plays for Louisiana last season, getting 16 tackles and four pass defenses in 2022. Before that, he had four tackles in seven games back in 2021.
He has the experience to be a key contributor and athletic ability as well. He’s been behind guys like Eric Garror, Bralen Trahan, Trey Amos, and Mekhi Garner his entire career, so can he make the most of his opportunity now will be the biggest question.
Tyrone Lewis Jr
Lewis took a big leap forward last season at the safety spot, getting 42 tackles in 13 games for the Cajuns. This will be his third season with Louisiana after the Hammond product transferred to Lafayette from Kansas State.
With the departures of Kam Pedescleaux and Bralen Trahan, Lewis will be the name to watch from the safety position as the player with the most expectations. I would look for Lewis to meet those expectations and have a big year for LaMar Morgan’s defense.
Courtline Flowers
Flowers may have some of the highest expectations of any returning player on the defense for Louisiana.
He had 31 tackles and four passes defended last season and provided key depth for a secondary that was going to be new in 2023. Now, he’ll use that much-needed experience to create energy and key plays for Louisiana in 2023 as he will be necessary to the success of this defense.
Others to Watch
Patrick Mensah has been a key role player defensively over the last few seasons. Lorenzell Dubose is one of the highest rated recruits in school history, so there is a lot of expectations with him as well. Also, Tyree Skipper is another big name to keep an eye on.