PHOTO/CURTIS WILSON

Johnson C. Smith defensive end Jamaal Tutt (left) and cornerback Desmond Taylor (right) return to a unit that led the CIAA with 31 takeaways in 2015.

There is no rotation for Johnson C. Smith’s defensive linemen during spring drills.

There are only four on the roster – ends Jamaal Tutt and Brice Smith and tackles Rashad Burney and Lionel Lewis – which means they’re taking all the snaps. Rather than complain, Tutt is talking about an opportunity to improve a defense that allowed 23.7 points and 309.7 yards per game last year.

“Speaking for myself and Brice Smith, the other D-end, we’re both returning starters, but the two D-tackles who played the majority of the time last year graduated,” he said. “[Burney and Lewis are] stepping up into that role and getting more reps, getting more experience through practice.”

The Golden Bulls (4-6) led the CIAA in takeaways last year with 31, including a league-leading 23 interceptions. All-America free safety Carlo Thomas, who led all divisions with 12 picks, is out after shoulder surgery, but is expected back in the fall.

“We really compete against each other,” cornerback Daryl Napper said. “We have a little intrasquad competition – who has the most picks, who has the most plays – just to make everybody want to compete and do better so we can have those bragging rights.”

JCSU returns seven starters from 2015, but graduate All-America linebacker Austin Jacques, the CIAA defensive player of the year. Javard Gaines, a junior who tallied 59 tackles and 2.5 sacks, is the top returning linebacker.

“He’s very explosive, athletic. He’s smart on the field, he knows his stuff,” Tutt said. “I feel he’s going to be a great leader for the linebacker group. It’s kind of his role to assume.”

Continuity helped the Golden Bulls improve in 2015, Napper said. When coach Kermit Blount retained coordinator James Lott, the scheme remained consistent and the defense thrived. The challenge is to continue.

“Honestly, you have to outwork your opponent, watch film, know what they’re going to do,” Napper said. “Coach Lott really instills in us watching a lot of film and as soon as we get in there and go over our mistakes, we’re going back to our opponent.”

Said Tutt: “I feel that we’re practicing at a high level right now. We have great attitudes right now.”

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