In 2023, JMU’s defense made history by setting the Sun Belt single-season record for total team sacks at 45. Defensive line standout Jalen Green also made history by becoming the first FBS All-American in program history. However, heading into the 2024 season, major contributors like Green are not returning to the team due to graduation or transferring to new destinations. Additionally, the team lost every defensive coach except Eddie Whitley, the cornerbacks coach, leading to significant changes and opportunities for new playmakers to emerge.
Defensive coordinator Lyle Hemphill’s preferred defensive base is a 4-2-5 scheme, emphasizing leverages and matchups for success. The defensive scheme is expected to be multiple to address unique offensive challenges. The linebackers are leading the unit through camp, and the secondary looks deeper than last year. While the defensive front is unproven, it has shown promise during camp.
Newcomers are bolstering the defensive front, with standout transfers like Eric O’Neill, Amar Thomas, Lloyd Summerall, and Khairi Manns making an impact. Immanuel Bush has also received praise for his athleticism and performance during camp. Redshirt freshman Mychal McMullin and transfers like Chris Fitzgerald and Terry Lockett are also showing potential to contribute to the defensive line.
In the linebacker corps, Holy Cross transfer Jacob Dobbs has emerged as a leader and is expected to start at middle linebacker. Trent Hendrick, Taurus Jones, and Gannon Weathersby are also poised to make significant contributions to the defense. Graduate transfer Ray Scott brings experience and size to the run defense, adding depth to the linebacker group.
The secondary remains unpredictable in terms of predicting starters, but players like Chauncey Logan, Jordan Taylor, Terrence Spence, and Jacob Thomas are expected to play key roles. Transfers like Ray Williams, Ja’Kai Young, and KJ Flowe, along with true freshmen Chase Regan, add depth and potential playmaking ability to the secondary.
Overall, JMU’s defense is largely unproven but full of potential. The defensive line generates pressure, the secondary makes solid plays, and the linebackers appear to be the strongest position group on the team. With the transfer-heavy unit continuing to gel, there is potential for this defense to be special in Sun Belt play. While the defense may not be a finished product by the start of the season, the pieces are in place for a successful campaign.
