Longhorns Jaylan Ford Lands in PFF Top 10 Returning Linebackers
Linebacker Jaylan Ford is set to return for his senior season. Ford is arguably the biggest and best name returning on either side of the ball for the Longhorns.
Ford arguably was the Longhorns' biggest breakout star on either side of the ball this past fall. He registered a team-leading 119 tackles and finished with 10 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, two sacks, and two fumble recoveries. Ford also led Texas' defense in interceptions with four.
Returning Ford is a massive win for the Longhorn's defense. Third-year Defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski will need to fill the hole of losing six starters this offseason. Having Ford’s leadership will be instrumental in helping the Longhorns stay competitive on the defensive end.
Ford should become the field general for the Longhorns (8-5, 5-3 Big 12) in place of DeMavrion Overshown. In place of Ford, Texas has options with junior David Gbenda, and sophomore Morice Blackwell Jr. slotted to return in 2023. The Longhorns also landed Denton Ryan's Anthony Hill (SI99's No. 48 prospect) as part of their latest recruiting class.
PFF’s Top 10 returning Linebacker list is elite. Some of the notable names joining Ford are; Jeremiah Trotter JR. (Clemson), Harold Perkins JR. (LSU), Tommy Eichenberg (Ohio State), and Cedric Gray (UNC).
The turnover battle will be one of the significant keys to Texas' success in 2023. Ford’s four interceptions led all FBS linebackers, and he tied for second in the Power Five with two forced fumble recoveries. He also forced three fumbles tying him for sixth in the country.
In two years, Ford has recorded 172 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and four interceptions. He will have two years of eligibility left thanks to the COVID-19 waiver allotted to all players for the 2020 season.
The Longhorns open up the 2023 season at Royal-Memorial Stadium against Rice on Sept. 2.
You can follow Adam Glick on Twitter @adamglick39
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