Dragons counting on newcomers to play key roles on defense

With the graduation of several key performers from a year ago, Junction City enters this season with plenty of uncertainty on the defensive side of the ball.

But it is up front where the Dragons are most experienced with senior Slade Wilson leading a quartet that is vying for playing time at defensive end.

Fellow senior AJ Ivory, as well as junior Bryan Estrada and sophomore Tim Verdin also are in the mix.

The Dragons have seven players that are working at defensive tackle with seniors Kevin Newberry and Ayden Howe returning as the most experienced players.

Junior Austin Mendoza, senior Rylan Sawyer, sophomores Jalen Ivey and Javion Davis and senior Nate Patterson also are competing at that spot.

“The strength of the defense right now,” Junction City coach Brad Smith said of the Dragons' front line.

Junior Kristopher Norman leads a group of linebackers that is short on experience, but has seen plenty of growth during summer practices.

Senior Chance Rowland, sophomore Hayden Hudson and Estrada are also candidates at linebacker.

“They are a very inexperienced group, but they are getting better each practice,” Smith said.

The Dragons have several players looking to earn playing time at cornerback.

Junior Jakorian Key, seniors Ryan Allen, CJ Miller and Alex Prado, as well as sophomore Jordavion Williams are all working at that spot.

Senior Jamal Johnson, juniors Decoreon Dubose and Kayshawn Washington along with sophomore Brandon New are working at both safety spots, and Smith said all of them can fit at either position.

“We're young in places and we're veteran in places,” Smith said. “We're improving each time we step on the field.”

The Dragons posted a shutout in their playoff win over Marked Tree and held three other opponents to six points last year.

For Junction City to have a solid defense in 2021, Smith said there were three things the unit must accomplish.

“Reading formations, understanding roles and understanding situations,” Smith said.

Special teams have been crucial to

the Dragons’ success over the years, and Smith said it should be a strength for the Dragons again this year.

“They should be solid,” Smith said. “Many of our returning players cut their teeth on special teams.”

Norman, Johnson and Dubose are in the mix to handle the punting and kicking duties for Junction City.

On punt and kick returns, Johnson, Dubose, Williams and Ivory give the Dragons a threat to score whenever they get the ball in their hands.

“They’re always of the utmost importance because one-fourth of the game is special teams,” Smith said.