I think he pushes Ford and Bethel for playing time, and stays ahead of the TFs. I wouldn't be surprised if he is our starter, tbh, given Simpson comes in with no favorites among Kul's recruits.
This is a 5th year senior who has 3 years of game experience in the Big 10, two as a starter, and now is looking to make a pro team. This is his money year, and like Willis, I have to believe he's locked in to make the most of it.
Here's his 2017 bio from the Illinois football website:
- Played in 10 games with four starts at defensive tackle
- 29 tackles (10 solo), 4.5 TFLs, 1.0 sack, two pass breakups
- Tied for second on the team in TFLs (4.5)
- Second on the team in TFLs during Big Ten games (4.0)
- Blocked a field goal at South Florida and added four tackles, 1 PBU and 0.5 TFL
- Career-high six tackles at Minnesota