HARRISON BUTKER, K
The sophomore from Westminster may have the brightest NFL future of any player on the roster. Coach Paul Johnson said that Butker, after making 10 of 14 field-goal tries last season, including five of seven between 40 and 49 yards, “just scratched the surface” of his potential. Given that the Yellow Jackets do not figure to win many games going away, Butker’s ability to deliver consistently and in the clutch will be critical.
JAMAL GOLDEN, S
Golden’s 2013 season ended after three games because of a shoulder injury. He is back, along with fellow safety Isaiah Johnson, who redshirted last season while coming back from a knee injury. Golden, a junior, can provide some stability and smarts at the back end, where Tech struggled at times last season with both Golden and Johnson out. Also, Golden was a phenomenal return specialist in 2012 and figures to impact the Jackets’ special teams again.
ZACH LASKEY, B-BACK
After backing David Sims the past two seasons, Laskey will get his chance to be the starter as a senior. Laskey stood out in the spring, and Paul Johnson touted that he will have a big season if he stays healthy. Laskey likely will be asked to carry the load, which among other things means he’ll need to be more consistent and also improve his blocking.
QUAYSHAWN NEALY, LB
With 32 starts and 197 tackles to his credit, Nealy, a senior, is the most experienced member of the Tech defense. He can do a little bit of everything — rush the passer, defend in pass coverage and certainly bring down ball carriers. Along with linebacker Tyler Marcordes, seen as a potential breakout player, he’ll be busy this season. He’ll also be asked to carry leadership responsibilities on an inexperienced unit that will crave it.
JUSTIN THOMAS, QB
Thomas, a sophomore, will be one of the quickest and fastest quarterbacks in the country, as evidenced by his Alabama state championship in the 100-meter dash as a high schooler. He also has a quick release and has shown an accurate arm. If he can run the option effectively, both in the decision making and ball-handling, he could be Johnson’s most effective quarterback at Tech. Generously listed at 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds, durability is a concern.
