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We’re almost there. In less than 72 hours we’ll be hitting kickoff, and one of today’s players will almost certainly be starting.
Da’Wan Hunte – Sr.
Miami, FL (Miami Central HS)
5’9”, 190 pounds
Cornerback
2017 Projection: Starter at Cornerback
Hunte is one of the most experienced players in Purdue’s secondary. He started 10 games last season and played in all 12 games as a reserve in 2015. That gives him more experience than just about everyone else in a rebuilt secondary. Hunte is expected to be Purdue’s top starting corner and will draw tough assignments each week.
Last season Hunte had 47 tackles and broke up six passes. He did not have any interceptions, but he started the season well with 8 tackles against Nevada. He also had 7 tackles and two break-ups against Minnesota.
Purdue will rely on Hunte for defensive leadership this season. He is one of the few experienced seniors we have, so his time is now.
Elijah Sindelar – So.
Princeton, KY (Caldwell County HS)
6’4”, 230 pounds
Quarterback
2017 Projection: backup quarterback
Depending on how David Blough’s shoulder is, Sindelar might play some in two days against Louisville. He has made a ton of progress in fall camp As coach Brohm loves to work with big, tall quarterbacks like him.
Sindelar came to Purdue with a ton of promise. He was Mr. Football in the state of Kentucky and the state Player of the Year. In his last two seasons of high school he threw for nearly 7,000 yards and 93 touchdowns. He was even an accomplished basketball player that averaged 14.5 points per game. Unfortunately, he tore his ACL in his final HS game and that led to a redshirt as a true freshman.
Last season saw Sindelar make his debut. It was rough too. He completed 14 of 32 passes for 165 yards and 3 interceptions. Still, he is a talented QB that has time to make a mark.