There may be fewer linebackers on the field for Florida Atlantic this season, but there’s still question about which ones will earn playing time in 2017.
FAU defensive coordinator Chris Kiffin installed a 4-2-5 defense to combat Conference USA’s pass-happy spread offenses, removing a linebacker from a traditional 4-3 and replacing him with a fifth defensive back. The position has rotated through a handful of options at the two positions during preseason camp.
Azeez Al-Shaair, Hosea Barnwell and Kris Harris have all earned first- or second-team reps at middle linebacker (Mike).