Position Breakdowns: Defensive End

Outlook: The Huskers have good starting options but not much depth at defensive end. That will be particularly concerning in 2009 when three seniors will have graduated.

Incumbents: Zach Potter was one of the few bright spots for the Huskers defensively in 2007. You can expect he’ll only get better as the defense around him improves. Barry Turner needs only return to his former level to improve. The weight he added before last season really appeared to hinder his performance, minus the weight he should be no worse than he was when he was named a freshman All-American. Barring injury, Potter and Turner seem sure to start.

Rising Stars: Pierre Allen appears to be a top reserve and likely to contend to start in 2009. He managed three tackles including a sack and a pass breakup in the spring game.

In-The-Mix: Clayton Sievers seems likely to remain a two-deep player in his final year in Lincoln.

Enigma: There was always some question whether the past coaching staff truly believed in David Harvey or whether he was brought in to lure a classmate to Lincoln. Now a junior, he’s shown flashes in the spring game with two tackles, a fumble recovery and a pass breakup. Can he become a regular contributor at end and win a starting spot in 2009?

Odd Man Out?: William Yancy is the lightest and youngest scholarship defensive end on the roster. He’s coming off a redshirt season but could still use more time to develop physically.

On The Horizon: Weighing in at 225 lbs., both Cameron Meredith and Josh Williams seem likely to redshirt in 2008. Meredith was reportedly offered a scholarship by Oklahoma and Williams had offers from the better Big 12 North schools. Some legal issues may have cast some doubt on Williams’ status, but he was seen at NU’s spring game which would suggest he still expects to be in Lincoln in the fall. It’s also been suggested that a linebacker recruit could be moved to defensive end, but as they all weigh in under 225 lbs., a redshirt would seem essential before any could see time at defensive end.