Key returnees: Taylor Young (senior), Jordan Williams (sophomore), Raaquan Davis (sophomore), Lenoy Jones (sophomore), Clay Johnston (sophomore)
Key losses: Aiavion Edwards (graduation)
Newcomers: Deonte Williams (redshirt), Bryson Jackson (freshman)
Biggest unanswered question: How much will inexperience weigh this group down? Last year the Bears could rely on a senior (Edwards) and a junior (Young) to lead the freshmen playing around them. With Edwards gone, a lot of pressure lands on Young, who certainly would appear to have the personality to handle such a situation.
Why 2017 production could be better: The team returns its second-leading tackler in Young, who was five tackles away from tying Edwards despite playing in three fewer games.