Every Tuesday over the summer, we’re going to highlight individual players on the 2012-13 Syracuse football team. This week, we’re profiling defensive end Deon Goggins.
Deon Goggins will take Ernie Davis Legends Field at the Carrier Dome again for one last year. But he’ll be rushing opposing quarterbacks from a slightly different position this season. Goggins is moving from nose tackle to defensive end to help fill the gaps left by Chandler Jones and Mikhail Marinovich.
All eyes will be on Goggins this year as he takes over the role as the leader of the defensive line. The man he’s replacing was a first-round draft pick for the New England Patriots, so it wont be the easiest task. But he has shown early signs that he is ready for the role.
Goggins looked strong in the public Rochester practice, picking up a fumble and recording a tackle. But we wont know how he’ll play at defensive end until he faces some real competition.
» What do you think Goggins will do in 2012?
» Related: Meet the 2012 Syracuse football team — WR Marcus Sales
Inside Slant: The biggest criticism of Goggins has been his undersized frame. But last season, he made up for that with speed and strength, which is why the move to defensive end benefits him. Goggins can get off the line quickly so being on the outside rather than right in the middle means he will have less between him and the quarterback. As soon as Goggins adjusts to the differences in position, opposing quarterbacks will become well-acquainted with him.
Vitals:
- Birthdate: November 1988
- Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
- High School: Sommerset High School
- Position: Defensive End
- Class: Redshirt Senior
- Height: 6’1″
- Weight: 272 lbs
Career Highlights: Goggins started his collegiate career at LA Harbor College. He recorded 15 tackles and three sacks. He then moved on to Cerritos Community College where he wan an All Northern Division Central Conference First-Team selection after recording 37 tackles, including 10 sacks. He finally landed at Syracuse University. He started every game during his senior season and made 19 solo tackles and forced a fumble.
For more Syracuse coverage, Like our Facebook page and follow us @TheJuiceOnline.