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Player: Kai Higgins
Class: Senior
Size: 6-4, 260 Pounds
Position: Defensive End OR Defensive Tackle
2018 Results: 13 Starts, 22 Tackles, 1 Sack, 2 Pass Deflections
2019 Projection: Starter on Defensive Line
Kai Higgins, the former JuCo product, had a nice junior season on a defensive line that was up and down most of the season.
The defensive line will be much younger, but much more talented in terms of depth this upcoming season. The 2018 class, where 4 of 5 defensive lineman redshirted will look to add depth. Then add in George Karlaftis who will be a starter this season and Sulaiman Kpaka & Dontay Hunter, both who could be better than advertised.
There were late season rumblings that Kai could potentially be moving inside to a 3 tech type of position, with the addition of Karlaftis and the lack of experience inside other than Lorenzo Neal Jr, that move would make sense.
Kai was never a great pass rusher outside, but he is very strong and does a nice job against the run. He will be a good interior defensive lineman as well. Look for Kai to have another solid season.