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Last season one of the biggest problems that Purdue’s defense had was a lack of depth. That pressed some players into action early, which could pay off this season for today’s player.
Jaylan Alexander - So.
Hoffman Estates, IL (Hoffman Estates HS)
6’1”, 240 pounds
Linebacker
2019 Projection: Contributor at linebacker
Alexander was basically the fourth linebacker last season behind Markus Bailey, Derrick Barnes, and Cornel Jones. That’s a tough spot for a true freshman, but he saw action in 11 games and even made a pair of starts. He finished the season with 23 tackles and was a regular on special teams.
Alexander’s two starts were against Michigan State and Auburn. While few things went right against the Tigers, Alexander finished the day with a career high eight tackles.
That experience will pay off this season. Even though Bailey, Jones, and Barnes are back they need depth behind them, and Alexander will get plenty of playing time as a result.