The State of Oklahoma State: An Update on Defensive Cowboys Heading into Summer

We’ve already looked at state of Oklahoma State’s offense for the end of spring. Now let’s turned to the defense Mike Gundy is so confident in.

Prior to the start of spring practice, Gundy predicted the 2017 defense would be better than the one that went 12-1 in 2011 and won a Fiesta Bowl.

He credited depth and change in recruiting philosophy for his optimism.

“I just think we have more depth,” said Gundy. “I think that we’ve recruited longer and that our culture is in place so we have more depth than we did then.”

Here’s a look at that complete depth chart as it looks now.

Defensive End

Jordan Brailford was granted a medical hardship waiver for missing all of his would-be junior season. That means the Cowboys are two-deep in experienced starters and Tralund Webber has also shown the ability to make plays.

While there is plenty of depth at the end spot, it’s becoming a bit top-loaded. It will be interesting to see how much younger players like Brock Martin see the field. Mike Gundy seems to think it’s a possibility. Triston Grant spent last year redshirting. The two freshmen make up all of OSU’s underclassmen on the edge.

Defensive Tackle

The interior of the defensive line boasts similar depth to the ends. Joe Bob Clements gets my vote for most underrated assistant in the Big 12. He’s the epitome of an efficient recruiter. He finds his guys and then develops them into D-I players. See Emmanuel Ogbah and Vincent Taylor.

It will be a big year for Darrion Daniels. The former ESPN 300 prospect has been a difference maker since day 1. Now that Vincent Taylor is off to South Beach, he needs to take a leadership role on this line. DeQuinton Osborne is another brute who can make plays. Trey Carter bulked up and moved from end to tackle and former Michigan State DT Enoch Smith Jr comes in to add depth.

Linebacker

The Cowboys have an underrated group of linebackers. After losing Jordan Burton and Devante Averrette, the Cowboys still boast plenty of depth in the infield. With the installation of a second defensive scheme — Oklahoma State will employ both three-down and four-down sets — Glenn Spencer will be leaning on his guys even more.

Kenneth Edison-McGruder spent some time at the “star” linebacker spot a year ago but he has now been permanently moved from safety. Chad Whitener returns as a leader of the defense. Look for guys like Justin Phillips and newcomer Patrick Macon to be difference makers, as well.

Cornerback

Easily the biggest question mark for Oklahoma State. The addition of Clemson grad transfer Adrian Baker is huge. Past him the Cowboys still have zero starts among their corners. Mike Gundy doesn’t seem too worried but did concede that they may have to score a few points early on.

There seem to be several talented pieces including A.J. Green and Madre Harper but they will likely take their lumps this season. First up, they face a Tulsa passing game that, while retooling at QB and No. 1-2 receivers, is not one to overlook.

Safety

One of the biggest stories going into the spring was Ramon Richards’ move from cornerback to safety — especially considering the above-mentioned lack of depth on the outside. Richards and Tre Flowers make a formidable duo in the backfield. Behind them is a lot of youth.

Jordan Sterns led the team in tackles for three straight years from the strong safety spot. It will be interesting to see how OSU replaces that production and which of the young guns can make a name for themselves. The 2018 class is loaded with safety talent.

Specialist

Zach Sinor may be the best punter in America. He led the nation with 62.5 percent of his punts sticking inside the 20-yard line and only gave up one touchback. Think precision lawn darts. OSU only allowed 15 punt return yards all season.

Ben Grogan finished his career as OSU’s all-time leading scorer. The place-kicking job should be Matt Ammendola’s to lose. He took over kickoff duties early last season and was an instant upgrade. Can his strong leg handle both? If not, incoming freshman Jake McClure would definitely like a shot.