Ole Miss Rebels 2024 Linebacker Room Analysis

Fast and physical is one way to describe the Ole Miss Rebels linebacker group that was revamped over the offseason. The addition of Chris Paul Jr. was a great start to what has turned into a defensive unit overhaul for coordinator Pete Golding.

Here are some names to watch ahead of the 2024 season.

Chris Paul Jr.

Chris ‘Pooh’ Paul was one of the biggest hits of the last cycle. Paul entered the portal after an outstanding sophomore year at Arkansas where he led the team in tackles.

He seems to have a nose for the ball because he is always playing. Paul is also an effective blitzer, but what really stands out is his ability to move from sideline to sideline. Paul will be the anchor of this backstop unit and another player who could raise his draft stock with another stellar year in the SEC.

Suntarine Perkins

Perkins is an athletic and versatile monster on the football field, and his speed is what sets him apart. He hasn’t really taken full advantage of some opportunities, but he flashed in Tuscaloosa when he was asked to spy on Jalen Milroe of the Alabama Crimson Tide last season.

Expect Perkins to get tons of opportunities this season and show off his ability to rush the passer. He also has the athleticism to be a sort of “Swiss army knife” and shine in different spots. It should be interesting to see how Golding and the defensive staff decide to use him.

TJ Dudley

The Clemson transfer finally got his time to shine in the Peach Bowl against Penn State and had a very solid performance. Dudley showed an ability to rush the passer, which was somewhat of a question mark with CJ Johnson retiring from the bowl game.

With Dudley cleared for the 2024 season, this adds yet another athletic and physical football player to a very talented room. Dudley goes unnoticed but will certainly find the field in August.

Khari Coleman

Khari Coleman has been a very good part of this defense, starting in 12 games last year for the Rebels. Coleman is one of the most experienced football players in this room. His experience is a valuable asset in building a sense of culture. Coleman can also play fast, physical football, the same traits those other guys share.

This group will be exciting to watch as they weren’t in the top 10 On3 linebacker units in the country, so they might have something to prove once the season starts in August.