Miami Hurricanes freshman LB Deshawn Troutman playing fearless
Improving linebacker play is critical for the Miami Hurricanes in 2021. Miami allowed 174.45 rushing yards per game in 2020 which was 76th nationally. One player to watch this spring and into August training camp is freshman linebacker, Deshawn Troutman. Troutman has been impressive as an early enrollee.
Inside LB coach Jonathan Patke praised the physicality and fearlessness that Troutman has shown through three weeks of spring practice. It will be difficult for Troutman to move up the depth chart but the way he has played this spring is impressive and projects well for his future in 2021 and beyond for Miami.
Miami has a young and relatively inexperienced LB corps behind returning starting MLB Bradley Jennings Jr.. Zach McCloud moved from outside LB to defensive end following the 2020 season. Jennings will have the option to return for the 2022 season, enter the transfer portal as a graduate, or the NFL Draft.
The reps Troutman is getting this spring will benefit him for the 2021 season and beyond. Troutman was the 33rd ranked ILB in the Class of 2020. Tyler Johnson who was a three-star ILB signee with Miami will arrive later this summer. Edge rusher Thomas Davis played LB with Lowndes High School in Valdosta, Georgia.
"“One thing I saw from him in the scrimmage is he’s physical, tackles, not scared, made a lot of plays, really productive. That was really good to see out of him. The spotlight isn’t too big when he’s out there. He just runs and plays.”"
Troutman making plays in encouraging. Being able to translate that to games this fall is a different level. Entering immediately and not being intimidated by the upperclassmen shows the confidence that Troutman has. Other young LBs to watch are second-year freshmen Tirek Austin-Cave and Corey Flagg.
Next. Corey Flagg competing for playing time at LB. dark
Beyond Jennings, the Hurricanes are young and inexperienced. Austin-Cave and Flagg are ILB. Third-year players Sam Brooks and Avery Huff are players to watch who will challenge to become starters for Miami as OLB. Spring practice and August training camp are critical for the Miami Hurricanes to figure out the depth chart at LB.