2015 Spring Football - Defensive Line

The new look Jayhawks began spring practice on March 24th and the spring game is scheduled for April 25th. Today we will check out the new defensive line coach and see whose going battle in the trenches this season.

David Beaty’s goal was to bring energy and enthusiasm to the Jayhawks and nowhere is that more apparent than in the hire of new Defensive Line Coach Calvin Thibodeaux. Thibodeux immediately connected with his players and, given his recent success in the Big 12 (2005 1^st team, lead the league in sacks), has created a bond with the D-linemen that they feed on during practice. Thibodeaux has been spotted jumping in the trenches and demonstrating technique. Beaty brought a number of young coaches to the staff but, perhaps more than any other, Thibodeaux commands the attention of his players and they listen to the guidance of someone who was in their shoes and successful not so long ago.

The D-line roster is the icy-hot patch to the pain of reviewing the CBs (in both experience and awesome names). Five players played in at least 7 games last season, three played in all 12, and two have significant starting experience.  The veteran-laden line will likely feature tackles Andrew Bolton and Kapil Fletcher and ends Ben Goodman and T.J. Semke, all seniors. A trio of transfers and several key reserves from last season will push the seniors making the D-line group one of the deepest and most competitive in practice. I’m also very interested in the development of D.J. Williams and whether he can begin to make an impact.

Here is the current* DL roster:

*With transfers, early enrollees, and nearly 30 walk-ons this is an attempt to present a comprehensive list for spring practice. With all of the new faces in the program, and those to come over the summer, the roster will remain dynamic throughout the offseason.