Virginia’s defense lost several key contributors in 2014 to the NFL, including defensive end Eli Harold, linebacker Max Valles, and safety Anthony Harris. That means at least one new starter will emerge at every level of the defense this season.

The linebacker position, in particular, will have a whole new look in 2015. The Cavaliers will have to find three new starters and some substitutes after Valles, Henry Coley, and Daquan Romero each wrapped up their careers. Valles played a hybrid linebacker-defensive end role as the Hoos spent a lot of time in sub defense packages. Romero roamed a bit in an outside role and Coley plugged the middle. It’s important to remember, of course, that Jon Tenuta labels them all linebackers and expects varying contributions and skills depending on the call.

With that said, middle linebacker Micah Kiser and outside linebacker Zach Bradshaw have emerged as the top two options. Kiser has grown into the Coley role and has impressed the coaches with his knowledge of the scheme during training camp.

“Micah is doing exactly that [Coley making calls role] and his knowledge level has far surpassed what Coach Tenuta has expected,” Virginia coach Mike London said. “He’s really exceeded what we want our linebackers to be able to do because they do make the line calls, the coverage checks, and things like that. Very, very happy with him.”

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