The last group on the defense that we will take a look is the most remade group of the bunch … well I guess it all depends on what position Suntarine Perkins actually is, but I digress.
While the corner position historically has been lacking, the Rebels have deployed some fun dudes at the safety position. Jamarca Sanford, Trey Washington, Cody Prewitt, Tony Conner, Daijahn Anthony, Wydette Williams and AJ Moore just to name some that immediately come to mind.
The aforementioned Wydette Williams is sadly gone, as well as Sage Ryan, Kapena Gushiken and TJ Banks from last season’s group. This group has three key transfers as well as a few intriguing returners that will be fighting for a spot on the field.
#6 Joenel Aguero – Sr. 6’0” 200 (Georgia)
#7 Sharif Denson – Sr. 5’11” 195 (Florida)
#14 Edwin Joseph – Sr. 6’0” 195 (Florida State)
#19 MJ Preston – So. 6’0” 190
#20 Anthony Robinson III – Jr. 6’0” 200
#24 Andy Jaffe – Jr. 6’0” 200
#29 Nick Cull – Sr. 5’11” 175
#31 Ladarian Clardy – So. 5’11” 190
#35 Craig Tutt – Fr. 5’11” 195
#36 Keon Young – So. 6’0” 195
#37 Cortez Thomas – So. 6’0” 195
#39 Gerald Lacy Jr. – Sr. 5’11” 185 (Trinity Valley CC)
#46 Nascar McCoy – Fr. 6’1” 200
Immediately we know that Aguero, Denson and Joseph are going to be in the mix. They are senior transfers from the SEC and ACC with starting experience. Denson could see time at corner/nickel while I see Aguero filling that old strong safety position and Joseph in the free safety spot.
Nascar McCoy is obviously a dope name, and David Kellum is most likely sitting in a recliner somewhere coming up with as many race car related puns as possible for use this season. Fans can absolutely expect a “gentlemen start your engines that’s a pick six for Nascar McCoy” from our radio announcer in the future.
The overhaul of the back of the Ole Miss defense is partly what coaches are facing in the NIL era and partly this staff attempting to upgrade talent as best possible. There was some reliability and consistency to replace, and once the ball is snapped in 2026, it is going to be known very quickly the quality of transfers are now on this roster.