With Matt Campbell and Jon Heacock’s 3-2-6/3-3-5 defensive scheme, the linebackers get a lot of opportunities to shine. This core returns a lot from last year, but what it did lose is a lot to replace.
Departures:
Joel Lanning - The former quarterback turned linebacker will be a huge hole to fill. Lanning led the Cyclones in total tackles last season and had six sacks. Lanning was the middle linebacker and the emotional leader of the defense.
Mackenro Alexander- He was never a star on the defense, but was always a solid piece who provided depth.