ASU's Carrington Praises Rising DB Talent

TEMPE -- Arizona State assistant head coach Bryan Carrington spoke to the media following Thursday's practice, one that featured some of the most lively action of any that has been held during spring thus far.

The passing game coordinator discussed the growth of the defensive backs, how the receivers are challenging the defense, and more.

lm;ml — Sep 6, 2025; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils defensive back Xavion Alford (2) reacts with defensive back Adrian Wilson (6) during the first quarter against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images | Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

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Below is a discussion of a few of the most essential topics surrounding the Arizona State secondary.

Arizona State Awaits Return of Star

Adrian "Boogie" Wilson is returning for another season in Tempe after taking over the starting SS role from Xavion Alford from week three on last season.

The Washington State transfer largely excelled in the role that was thrust upon him in an unplanned manner, and opted to return for the 2026 campaign - although he underwent shoulder surgery in December that he is still recovering from.

llm;ml — Nov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils safety Adrian Wilson (6) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Wilson revealed in early February that he was set to miss at least the first half of spring, so it's possible that at least a semi-return is in the cards this spring - he remains poised to land a starting role regardless of what transpires in the two weeks ahead.

Mar 3, 2026; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils head football coach Kenny Dillingham (left) with booster Jay Blegen against the Kansas Jayhawks at Desert Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Young Cornerbacks Leaving Positive Impression

Rodney Bimage Jr. and Ashton Stamps have stolen the show at the cornerback position three weeks into spring, and rightfully so. However, there are several members of the eight-man room that deserve shine behind the presumed starters on the boundary.

Caleb Chester (Texas) has made several under-the-radar plays during spring, including at least one interception. Nigel Pringle (Arkansas) is another young player at the position who has immense potential. Freshmen DaQuwan Dunn and Jalen Williams have been slept-on contributors for three weeks in a row.

lmm — Sep 13, 2025; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns defensive backs Graceson Littleton (29) and Caleb Chester (25) react after Littleton made an interception during the second half against the Texas El Paso Miners at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images | Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

Nickel Proves To Be Question Mark

Nickelback was a major question mark last summer as well - the program was forced to replace the productive Shamari Simmons. The combination of Montana Warren and Kyndrich Breedlove proved to be serviceable in 2025, but failed to prevent a similar question from arising this time around.

Warren could certainly play nickel again this season, as he was relatively effective in the role last season. There are also thoughts that Wilson could be moved to nickel at times. Could there be a surprise addition to the fray along the way? Much more will be revealed over the next five months in the pecking order at nickelback.