Predicting Washington football’s defensive two deep roster

Defensive backs

Boundary corner starters: Keith Taylor (sr.), Trent McDuffie (soph.)

Backups: Kyler Gordon (rs. soph.), Dominique Hampton (rs. soph.)

Nickel corner: Elijah Molden (sr.)

Backup: Julius Irvin (rs. soph.)

Safety starters: Cam Williams (soph.), Asa Turner (soph.)

Backups: Alex Cook (sr.), Julius Irvin

Breakout player: Irvin- The only name on the depth chart twice, Irvin is one of the most talented defensive backs on the roster. After injuries plagued his 2019, he’s primed to have a huge 2020. Whether it be as the nickel corner or the third safety, he’s a swiss army knife that Jimmy Lake can utilize on the defensive backend. If he can stay healthy in 2020, he’ll make a name for himself on the national stage. Don’t be surprised if senior Brandon McKinney is listed as the backup at safety before Week One, but Irvin might overtake him by the end of the year.

Riser: Kamren Fabiculanan (rs. frosh.)- The young cornerback might not crack the two-deep, but the former receiver understands how to play the position, and if he impresses at practice, that could lead to him moving up the depth chart. He’ll probably get some snaps on special teams, and if he makes plays, he’ll continue to see the field.