Depth Chart Watch 2012 (Defensive End)

For the next 11 days HuskerCorner.com will be bringing you an in-depth look at each position for the 2012 season. We will break down  who we think is the front runner for the starting position, the player on the front runner’s heels  for the starting spot and a freshman who could make a splash.

Nebraska’s defensive ends return at full strength in 2012. The only loss on the defensive line was Josh Williams, who was dismissed from the team due to a violation of team rules. While the same starters return from last season, Eric Martin, Nebraska’s top backup, is entering his senior season and will try to make a run at a starting spot. The battle for the starting role opposite Cameron Meredith could be the most interesting position battle of 2012.

The Front Runners

Cameron Meredith is a rock at the defensive end position. Without a doubt, Meredith will start in 2012. He has shown time after time that he can make big plays and play consistently well.
Jason Ankrah finished the season as Nebraska’s starter opposite Meredith. He showed some flashes throughout the season, but didn’t show enough consistency to cement his role as a starter. However, Ankrah is more of a complete defensive end, equal in run stopping and pass rushing ability, when compared with competitor Eric Martin, so he has the early edge.

The Number One Contender 

Eric Martin figures to be the top contender, and a fierce one at that. Martin has been a fan favorite since he arrived at Nebraska as a linebacker in 2009. With a full season under his belt at defensive end, Martin has had time to learn the position and could peak in 2012. While he’s mostly a pass rusher, Nebraska is looking for playmakers to spark the Blackshirts defense, and Martin has that capability.

Incoming Freshman 

Greg McMullen is a four-year high school starter who posted near 10 sacks in each of his high school seasons. He left high school ranked near the top ten defensive ends by numerous recruiting services and played in the SemperFi All-America Game with fellow Husker recruit Jordan Westerkamp. While the top of the depth chart is stacked at Nebraska, McMullen has the best chance of any freshman to play. Still, it looks like a redshirt for McMullen — there’s simply too much talent at the top.

Depth Chart Prediction

Starter. Cameron Meredith

Starter. Eric Martin

2. Jason Ankrah

3. Joseph Carter

By Chris Peters

Contact the writer at ChrisHuskerCorner@gmail.com or on Twitter @_ChrisPeters

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