The Texas Tech Red Raiders have been actively navigating the NCAA transfer portal to bolster their roster, especially at the safety position. Last year, they struck gold with Cole Wisniewski, who made a significant impact by finishing third in tackles and tying for first in pass breakups. However, with Wisniewski's eligibility expired, the Red Raiders aimed to replicate that success this offseason.
This time around, they set their sights on Koi Perich, a standout safety from Minnesota. Despite their efforts, Perich opted to join Oregon, leaving Texas Tech to turn inward for solutions. As spring practice kicks off on March 10, the competition is heating up among sophomores Oliver Miles III, Peyton Morgan, and Malik Esquerra-all top-100 recruits from their high school days-for a coveted starting spot.
Returning to the fold are John Curry and Brenden Jordan, key contributors from Tech's impressive 12-2 Orange Bowl team. Curry, playing the versatile "star" position-a hybrid of safety and outside linebacker-brings a dynamic presence near the line of scrimmage. Meanwhile, Jordan, who has experience at both the star and field safety positions, adds flexibility to the defensive scheme.
Coach Joey McGuire is optimistic about the depth and talent at safety. "We have John Curry and B.J. Jordan as two of our returners," McGuire noted, "and we're looking for one of the young guys to step up and claim the other spot."
Miles and Morgan, both fitting the field safety profile, are vying for that role. At 6-foot-2 and 190 pounds, Miles brings an athletic edge, having temporarily switched to running back last season to fill a gap.
Morgan, at 6-foot and 180 pounds, also has his sights set on making an impact. Esquerra, standing at 6-3 and 205 pounds, is seen as a natural fit for boundary safety, where his size and length can be utilized effectively.
The versatility of Jordan allows defensive coordinator Shiel Wood and safeties coach Rob Greene to mix and match based on performance. If Miles or Morgan shines, Jordan could seamlessly transition to boundary safety, filling the void left by Wisniewski. Conversely, if Esquerra emerges as the frontrunner, he would take on that role, keeping Jordan at his previous position.
Both Miles and Esquerra boast impressive athletic backgrounds, having been state champions in track and field. Despite their limited experience, their potential is undeniable. Morgan recorded 11 tackles and 3 pass breakups last season, while Esquerra and Miles contributed with 8 tackles and a blocked punt, respectively.
Behind Curry at the star position are Marcus Ramon-Edwards, a junior with a commanding presence at 6-3 and 225 pounds, and Donovan Webb, a promising freshman from Frisco Panther Creek. Webb, one of the 21 signees in December, has already made an impression since joining the team in January.
As spring practice approaches, the Red Raiders are poised to develop their young talent and reinforce their defensive lineup, setting the stage for another competitive season.