Spring Outlook for SMU Linebackers
The SMU football team will have a much different look in 2025 with several key pieces graduating and plenty of new faces coming in as the Mustangs try to continue momentum from the 2024 campaign.
On The Pony Express will take a look at each position group before spring practices begin with storylines to watch this offseason.
Even though the Mustangs lose two key pieces from the defense over the last two seasons, there is a ton of talent returning and even more coming in this offseason.
Who’s leaving?
Kobe Wilson, Ahmad Walker, Tarian Lee Jr.
Wilson and Walker were key pieces to the SMU defensive turnaround over the last two seasons. They came in and solidified the linebacker position as a strength and anchor on that side of the ball. Their leadership and production — Wilson led the Mustangs in tackles each of the last two years while Walker finished second and third.
Who’s returning?
Justin Medlock, Zach Smith, Brandon Booker, Brandon Miyazono, Alexander Kilgore
Kilgore has made an impact from the start, earning three starts as a true freshman and playing in all 28 games during his two seasons. Miyazono, Booker and Medlock were primarily special teams players this past year while Smith got into one game.
Who’s coming in?
Zakye Barker, Kyle Ferm, Mark Iheanachor
The Mustangs add three linebackers to the room. One Division I transfer, a JUCO transfer and a high school recruit.
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Barker comes to SMU after an 86-tackle campaign at East Carolina last season. He missed all of 2022 with an injury and played in 20 games over the last two years. In one season at Citrus College, Fern had 50 tackles, two sacks and an interception. Meanwhile, Iheanachor comes from Los Angeles where he helped lead Narbonne to a state semifinal appearance.
Biggest spring question
Who will step up to start alongside Kilgore and provide depth?
There are certainly plenty of options. Barker could make a similar impact that Wilson and Walker did when they came to SMU out of the transfer portal. Miyazono and Booker could take that next step, but will have to prove they can handle the added responsibilities.
Storylines to watch
There is a ton of talent and a mix of experience in the room, but it will be up to linebacker coach Maurice Crum to get them all ready to take the next step. Only Kilgore has significant experience playing the linebacker position at SMU and only Barker joins him with regular Division I experience at the position.
A player to keep an eye on is Booker. SMU defensive coordinator Scott Symons and Crum were high on him out of high school last year and the door is open if he takes advantage of it.