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We’re halfwya there! Today marks just 50 days until the season kickoff on August 30th against Northwestern. It also means we have two players since an offensive guy and a defensive guy wears No. 50.
Keiwan Jones - Sr.
Ocala, FL (Dunnellon HS)
6’2”, 280 pounds
Defensive Tackle
2018 Projection: Contributor at defensive tackle
Jones is a guy that was almost completely ignored for three years under Hazell. He played in just one game as a reserve, and that wasn’t unitl 2015. Despite being a three-star prospect and his team’s defensive MVP in high school Hazell just never found a spot for him. he also sustained a torn ACL before the 2016 season.
Once Jeff Brohm arrived he was able to finally see the field with regularity. He played in three games last year and made three tackles before a knee injury ended his season. It is unfortunate because he was making some plays before getting hurt against Minnesota. He comes into his final year looking to make a difference, and he should get the opportunity at defensive tackle.
Bearooz Yacoobi - Sr.
Dearborn, MI (Dearborn HS)
6’5”, 300 pounds
Offensive Line
2018 Projection: Top reserve on the offensive line
I have spoken often of versatile depth on the offensive line, and that is exactly what Yacoobi brings. Last season he played in seven games as a reserve, mostly at guard or tackle. He has been a regular Academic all-Big Ten selection during his time in West Lafayette and he is expected to provide key depth this season.
Purdue seems to be set in terms of starters up from, but Yacoobi is one of those rotation guys that will get playing time as needed. He can fill in at either guard spot or at tackle, making him a key player this year.