The recent commitment from South Alabama linebacker Khalil Jacobs represents a significant boost for Mizzou as they gear up for the summer of 2024. It ticks off numerous boxes for the team: securing a prized and seasoned defensive asset? Check. Outmaneuvering powerhouse schools like Alabama and Ole Miss in the transfer market? Check. Yet, perhaps the most crucial box checked by Jacobs’ arrival is the reinforcement of a linebacker unit that, not long ago, faced significant thinness.
Prior to Jacobs’ commitment, Mizzou’s linebacker corps was on shaky ground. The departure of senior leaders Ty’ron Hopper (who was drafted in the NFL’s third round) and Chad Bailey created a notable void in depth. Rising seniors Chuck Hicks and Triston Newson performed admirably in 2023, stepping up as starters following injuries to Hopper and Bailey. Hicks contributed significantly, tallying 53 tackles and two sacks in nine starts out of 13 games. Meanwhile, Newson showcased his capabilities with 51 tackles and seven tackles for loss, despite limited playing time early on.
Both Hicks and Newson are expected to anchor the 2024 Tiger defense. However, prior to the transfer portal opening, there was a glaring deficiency in linebacker depth, both in terms of productivity and experience. This gap widened further with the announcements of underclassmen Dameon Wilson and Carmycah Glass opting to transfer out in December. As demonstrated in 2023, having multiple viable options on defense is crucial for success in the SEC, especially given the frequency of injuries. Going into spring, this was a concern for a defense also undergoing changes in coaching staff, with a new defensive coordinator and EDGE coach stepping in.
Taking proactive steps, head coach Eli Drinkwitz and linebacker coach DJ Smith swiftly addressed the situation in the winter transfer window by securing Miami transfer Corey Flagg. Flagg brings valuable experience, with one year of eligibility remaining after playing all four years at Miami, where he amassed 179 tackles and 5.5 sacks. Flagg joined the Tigers for spring practice, seamlessly integrating himself into Corey Batoon’s new defensive system.
Despite securing Flagg, the linebacker unit remained a vulnerability as Mizzou entered the spring transfer portal season, prompting the coaching staff to actively seek additional reinforcements. While one former Michigan transfer, Nikhai Hill-Green, opted for Colorado over Mizzou, the staff successfully recruited another, Jeremiah Beasley. Beasley had previously considered Mizzou out of high school but committed to Michigan instead, only to transfer out after one semester. Despite being a true freshman, Beasley, a four-star prospect, brings considerable talent to the roster.
Following Beasley’s commitment, many Tiger fans believed Mizzou had concluded its portal additions for the season, especially regarding linebackers. However, it became apparent that the coaches still aimed to enhance the room’s experience. Apart from Hicks, Newson, and Flagg, Brayshawn Littlejohn, who played special teams in four games before redshirting as a freshman, was the only other linebacker with playing time.
Completing the linebacker corps is Khalil Jacobs, who previously played for Mizzou’s current defensive coordinator, Corey Batoon, at South Alabama. While younger than Corey Flagg, Jacobs becomes the third-most experienced linebacker at the FBS level behind Hicks and Flagg (Newson played in the JUCO ranks initially). With impressive stats from his sophomore year, including 56 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, an interception, and three forced fumbles, Jacobs significantly strengthens the linebacker room.
Jacobs’ addition not only fortifies the linebacker rotation but also brings valuable experience in Corey Batoon’s defensive system, facilitating smoother integration for his teammates. With three linebackers entering their final year of eligibility in 2024, Jacobs’ commitment ensures continuity and leadership for the following season, allowing the coaching staff to develop young talent like Littlejohn, Beasley, and incoming freshmen recruits Rodriguez and Huff without rushing their development.
While Mizzou’s defense may face challenges in 2024 due to key departures, particularly on the roster and coaching staff, concerns about linebacker depth have been assuaged, positioning the program for a strong season and playoff contention.
