KINGSTON, R.I. - Rhode Island returns a pair of multi-year starting defensive linemen in Westley Neal, Jr. and Malachi Burby, though a group of hungry returners and a pair of talented newcomers will create healthy competition at the top of URI's depth chart.
Despite each dealing with injuries last season, Neal and Burby have appeared in a combined 66 games for URI and will provide key veteran experience on the defensive side of the ball.
Neal is coming off a campaign that earned him Third Team All-CAA Football honors with 25 tackles, five TFLs and a blocked PAT. The former four-star recruit out of Gulliver Prep reached 100 career stops during the season finale at Towson and will be looking to make waves in his final collegiate season in the middle of the line.
Burby has been an impact player and had four or more tackles in nearly half the games he played in last season. With 33 games, 72 tackles and seven tackles for loss during his time in Kingston, he will have a big role in URI's scheme under second-year defensive coordinator Chris Lorenti.
One of the top contenders for a starting spot will be newcomer Carson Primrose, who transferred to Rhode Island after a successful career with Sacred Heart. Recently named one of the top returning FCS defensive tackles by FCS Football Central, Primrose was a two-time All-NEC Second Team selection for the Pioneers. With 38 collegiate games under his belt, he will provide valuable experience and a fresh take to the defensive side of the ball.
Three returners also figure to battle for playing time in training camp. Both Kareem Wilson, Jr. and Case Mankins were part of URI's rotation a season ago, with Mankins playing 10 games as a true freshman. After suffering a season-ending injury during last year's camp, Patrick Conserve will look to be in the mix as well this year. A Rhode Island native, he was an All-State player for Cumberland.
The only freshman joining the group, Terrell Spruill had numerous Power 5 offers out of Rockledge High School in Florida. A three-star recruit according to 247Sports, he has demonstrated his ability to do damage from the interior and can get off blocks to put pressure on the football.
Redshirt sophomores Tosin Akinsulire and Bless Nyanneh have yet to appear in any games for URI but will look to break into the mix this season, as well.
Be sure to check GoRhody.com on Friday, July 12 for a look at the tight ends.
