It’s game week, which also means that Virginia Tech will release a depth chart this week for the first time ahead of their Sunday showdown against No. 13 South Carolina in Atlanta. Yesterday, I made my predictions on what the Hokies’ offensive depth chart will look like, which you can read here.
Today, let’s dive into what I think the Hokies’ defensive depth chart will look like.
Defensive End
- First Team: Ben Bell, James Djonkam
- Second Team: Keyshawn Burgos, Elhadj Fall
Ben Bell and James Djonkam unsurprisingly lead the way even with Djonkam making the transition from linebacker to defensive end. Bell has been a lock pretty much since his commitment and could easily give the Hokies' back-to-back years with a pass rusher having double-digit sacks.
Djonkam was a little more complicated given that he was making the move from linebacker to defensive end, but given that he has the size to play DE and the instincts of a linebacker, it's easy to see why he quickly adapted. There's no sign that Djonkam won't be a starter for Tech against the Gamecocks.
Keyshawn Burgos is the odd man out of VT's big three trio but will certainly have a large role as the top backup defensive end. The Richmond native has shown massive potential over the years to make highlight plays but has had issues with consistency. If Burgos can become a consistent playmaker, he could push Bell and Djonkam for more playing time.
Sam Siefkes seems to have a split between an EDGE position for guys like Bell and Burgos, and a bigger DE spot for the strongside with guys like Djonkam and Elhadj Fall. It will be interesting to see if that is reflected on VT's depth chart or if the Hokies simply have two DE spots.
The Georgia Southern transfer Fall was initially penned in as a DT, but seems to be working a good amount as a DE, something that Brent Pry hinted at during ACC Kickoff back in July. Fall has the versatility to work as a bigger, strongside DE or as a defensive tackle and it wouldn't be surprising to see the redshirt junior get work at both spots.
Aycen Stevens and Jason Abbey seem likely to be the next two defensive ends though there has been plenty of intrigue surrounding James Jennette this offseason. Stevens and Abbey do seem like they will figure into the future of VT's defensive end especially with Bell, Djonkam, and Burgos running out of eligibility after this season.
Brett Clatterbaugh will most likely not break into the depth chart at any point this season, but the four-star true freshman is a guy worth monitoring as he learns a new position following his move from inside linebacker.
