UGA DB outlook for 2019

Georgia returns plenty of talent in the secondary for the 2019 season, especially at safety, where the Dawgs might have the best combo in the country in JR Reed and Richard LeCounte.

STAR:

1. Divaad Wilson (RFr.)

2. Mark Webb (Jr.)

3. Tyrique McGhee (Sr.)

The STAR position, Georgia’s term for the nickel spot, is one that has become more and more popular in college football. It is essentially a nickel-back that can double as an outside linebacker. Look for Divaad Wilson, Mark Webb, Tyrique McGhee and William Poole to all receive playing time at this position. It really just depends on what the other team is showing the Dawgs.

Right Cornerback

1. Tyson Campbell (Soph.)

2. Mark Webb (Jr.)

3. DJ Daniel (Jr.)/Divaad Wilson (RFr.)

Tyson Campbell is coming off a freshman season in which he started 11 of 14 games. He’s a really talented player, which is why Kirby Smart put so much responsibility on him as a true freshman. He was picked on a bit by opposing teams, but after a strong offseason, he’ll be ready to assume the role yet again this fall. DJ Daniel had a strong spring game and should contend for a starting spot. Webb is long and plays very well in coverage.

Left Cornerback:

1. Eric Stokes (RSoph.)

2. Tyrique Stevenson (Fr.)

3. Ameer Speed (RSoph.)

Eric Stokes is Georgia’s next big thing at cornerback. He had a great year in 2018 and a strong spring performance as well. Look for him to lock down receivers and emerge as one of the SEC’s best cornerbacks. Stevenson is a big, physical dude who will be a true freshman this season. He got off to a nice start in practice and should contend for some playing time.

Right Safety:

1. Richard LeCounte III (Jr.)

2.Otis Reese (Soph.)

3. Lewis Cine (Fr.)

Richard LeCounte is a great player who really plays well in coverage. He had a nice 2018, however, struggled when he had to make an open-field tackle. Otis Reese, on the other hand, could improve some in coverage but plays well in supporting the run and tackling in space. Lewis Cine can really do it all, but he’s still young and will likely sit back and learn from Reese and LeCounte this year before making a big splash in 2020.

Left Safety:

1. J.R. Reed (Grad.)

2. Otis Reese (Soph.)

3. Lewis Cine (Fr.)

We covered Reese and Cine in the right safety spot, but they will serve as quality backups to JR Reed, who is considered one of the best at his position in college football. He can do it all, and Smart has a lot of faith in him, deeming him the leader of the secondary.