The message for McNeese this offseason has consistently been all of the new faces, and it’s certainly no different for the defensive secondary.
13 underclassmen (freshman or sophomore) are included in this group as well as several transfers for Gary Goff’s defense in 2023.
Javon Davis
Davis is entering his second season in Cowboy Country after a string freshman campaign. The former John Curtis standout had 27 tackles, six tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, a pair of pass breakups, and a forced fumble.
He will be one of the critical leaders of the defense in 2023 with all of the new faces coming into the program.
Johnquai Lewis
Lewis is the other returning player of note for the defensive backfield.
A sophomore from Hialeah, Florida, Lewis had 19 tackles and a fumble recovery last season during the Cowboys’ 4-7 run. At 6’2″, he has a pro-style build for a DB and will look to get much-needed experience again in 2023.
Levi Wyatt
Wyatt transferred to McNeese this offseason after playing the last two seasons at JUCO powerhouse East Mississippi Community College, the site of the famed series Last Chance U. He battled some injuries last season, only appearing in four games. He played eight games in 2021 and recorded 12 tackles, an interception, and recovered a fumble in the endzone.
Jamori Evans
Evans is another defensive back transfer from EMCC, just like Wyatt. Evans had a very strong 2022, earning First-Team MACCC honors after finishing second on the team in tackles with 85. He also had 4.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, and five pass breakups. He also recorded 30 tackles in 2021 under long-time Lions’ head coach Buddy Stephens.
Others to Watch
Boogsie Silveria is a freshman transfer from Charleston Southern who could be a fun player to watch as well as the third EMCC transfer in Jadden Matthews. Thomas Miles and Darius Shields will also provide more experience to a very young group overall.