[EKUAlum05]

Long way to go...

Belfry has some massive holes to fill but has a strong core to build around:

OFFENSIVE Starters Returning (3):
OT Justin Barker- Not the big bopper, but was consistently solid this season.

FB Derek Wellman- Plain and simple a superstar as evidence by his State Finals performance

HB Taveon Hunter- Was superb down the stretch and will be one of the better big play backs in the State

OFFENSIVE KEY RETURNEES:
SE Ryan Jessie- Essentially played 50/50 at SE

TE Braxton Miller- Played in most double tight sets

C Dagen Rash- Should be able to step right in. Started several games when Preece was hurt and did well.

OT Austin Lawson- Probably the most critical. The kid has a chance to be special and at 6'5 335 is the best possible scenario when you lose Austin Dotson

QB Avery Browning- Browning runs the Offense well and has started a handful of games the past two years

RB Peyton Hensley- The superb Freshman was brilliant in a reserve role and will either be asked to move to the starting HB spot or split carries with Wellman at FB





DEFENSIVE starters returning (6):
DE Grayson Cook- Cook was outstanding as a Freshman.Love his potential.

LB Austin Fields- One of the most pleasant surprises was how he developed from being seen as a liability to a very solid LB

LB Derek Wellman- Best LB in EKY and one of the best in the State

NG Chase Runyon- Does a very good job and will have to help anchor the LOS.

CB Devin Varney- Can be a gamechanger

CB Taveon Hunter- May see his role on Defense decrease as his role on offense increases

DEFENSIVE Key Returnees:
S Justin Adkins- Was the starter until he was lost for the season with an injury. Will be a welcome addition for sure.

DE Josh Keathley- Might see him move to Dove's DT spot, undersized by quick and played well when he saw action with the Varsity

S Ben Bentley- With Browning possibly at QB you could see Bentley take over at a Safety spot, hard not seeing this kid get on the field somewhere

CB Isaiah Birchfield- I am really high on this Freshman and think he can be a big time help if he puts in the work.

DT Jacob Baisden- You don't replace Ray Horton, but Belfry couldn't ask for a better Freshman in the pipeline than this razor sharp kid with great feet

Other Newcomers:
LB Seth Mounts- Remember the name. He has all the tools to be one of the best Freshman players in all of KY.

OL Ethan Wolford- Have heard nothing but positive's about this current Freshman and some think he may challenge for a starting Guard spot