Starting Junior defensive tackles Kendrick Norton and R.J. McIntosh left a year early for the NFL Draft, their backup Anthony Moten graduated and defensive ends Chad Thomas and Trent Harris also completed their eligibility. Miami Hurricanes Junior defensive end Joe Jackson was the only returning starter on the defensive line.
Defensive tackle Gerald Willis had a lot of expectations heading into 2018 after sitting out last season. According to Miami Head Coach Mark Richt, Willis dominated Miami’s offense on the scout team last season and the first team offense during Spring practice. That has continued in the real games in 2018.