The upcoming 2026 college football season is set to bring significant changes to the Rutgers defensive unit. With kickoff just around the corner, insights from Ourlads.com provide a glimpse into the anticipated starting lineup. This comprehensive preview offers biographical sketches for each projected defensive starter, acknowledging that the fluid nature of college football, especially with numerous transfers, means the final roster might see adjustments. The Scarlet Knights are looking to bolster their defense across all positions, from the interior line to the secondary, with a particular focus on enhancing pass rush capabilities and shoring up run defense.
At the defensive tackle position, Doug Blue-Eli is poised for a strong comeback after missing the previous season due to injury. Head coach Schiano has expressed optimism about Blue-Eli's recovery, and his return is expected to add crucial depth to the defensive line. Joining him is Keshon Griffin, who, despite Ourlads initially naming Zaire Angoy as a starter, is projected to maintain his starting role based on last season's performance. Griffin, though part of a struggling interior line last year, was a standout, contributing 8 total tackles. His experience will be vital as Rutgers seeks to improve its interior defense.
The defensive end/EDGE positions will feature two new transfers, J'Dan Burnett from Tulsa and Malachi Davis from Toledo. Both players bring impressive statistics from their previous institutions, with Davis earning Third Team All-MAC honors with 9.5 tackles for loss (TFLs) and 5.5 sacks, and Burnett recording 6.5 sacks and 9.5 TFLs. These additions are crucial for a team that only managed 11 sacks combined last season. A more effective pass rush is expected to alleviate pressure on the secondary and ignite excitement among fans at SHI Stadium during critical third-down plays.
In the heart of the defense, the linebacker corps will be led by transfers Sean Allison and Ty Morris. Allison, arriving from Drake (FCS), was the Pioneer Football League Defensive Player of the Year, consistently tallying over 100 tackles in his last two seasons. His former coach now serves as Rutgers' rush ends coach, facilitating a smooth transition. Morris, a highly-touted transfer from Rice, boasts 153 tackles, 17.5 TFLs, and seven sacks over three seasons, earning multiple all-conference recognitions. Both players offer a blend of extensive experience and leadership, crucial for anchoring the middle of Rutgers' 4-2-5 defense, especially after last season's struggles against the run. The 'STUD' position, a hybrid linebacker-defensive back role, will be filled by redshirt sophomore DK Gilley. His remarkable versatility, demonstrated by high school statistics including 61 tackles, 18 TFLs, 10 sacks, and two interceptions, makes him an ideal candidate to disrupt offenses with his ability to chase down runners, cover pass-catchers, and blitz the quarterback.
The cornerback positions will see new faces in Mikey Munn from FCS South Dakota and Kevin Levy. Munn had an impressive breakout season with five interceptions and ten pass breakups, earning All-American honors. His arrival is timely, as all of Rutgers' starting cornerbacks from last season have departed. Levy, though seeing limited playing time previously, has been praised by Coach Schiano for his off-season progress and is expected to capitalize on the power gap at the position. At safety, Kaj Sanders looks to rebound after a freshman season that showed flashes of potential, aiming to return to his top form under the new coaching staff. Joining him is Chris Joines, a transfer from Mercer who brings significant experience, having recorded 70 tackles, four TFLs, an interception, and a forced fumble in a previous season. After two full off-seasons, Joines is now better acclimated to the higher level of play.
Beyond the starting lineup, Rutgers boasts a committee approach for key reserve roles, particularly at linebacker and defensive tackle. The linebacking unit includes Moses Walker, Abram Wright, Kamar Archie, and DJ McClary, all of whom have shown promise despite past injuries or limited playing time. Archie and McClary are noted as top recruits, suggesting a deep and talented rotation is forming. Similarly, the defensive tackle committee features Zaire Angoy, Rondo Porter, and Jaedin Lee. Angoy provides capable backup with significant playing time last year, while Porter and Lee bring Power Four experience and proven tackling abilities, ensuring strong depth for the interior defensive line. This depth across all defensive positions is critical for Rutgers as they aim to significantly improve their performance in the upcoming season and establish a more dominant presence on the field.
