It’s the 88 Day mark until Kickoff against NSU in Natchitoches on Thursday, Aug 27th. Today we look at the DL for LCU. As this series continues through the next few weeks, we will take an inside look at all of the position groups.
It’s hard to contain the excitement when speaking with Defensive Line Coach and Recruiting Coordinator Eric Morris. Coach Mo did an amazing job last year with the D Line that was anchored with Freshmen and Sophomores all season long.
Now that the calendar has turned one starts to talk about a D Line that returns every starter and several experienced players. How can Sophomores be mentioned in the same sentences as experienced players? Well, keep in mind, it was a group of then Freshman that played the bulk of the snaps for the Sooner Athletic Conference Co-Champions. They have grown immeasurably through the 2025 season
Across the front line you will see familiar faces. Three players you will see and hear from throughout the year are Sophomore Isaiah Joles from Oak Grove, Jena Giants Sophomore Colton Sharp, West Fel’s Jermarian “Ted” Jackson, the lone Junior. Depth you ask… how about 3 more names that will resonate throughout the season? Darrell Cottonham, Jr, X’Zavier Jackson, and the reigning Coach Marty Secord Commitment to Christian Excellence award winner Jonathan Morre-Leday.
And those are returning Cats. Cats with big games under their belts. D Lineman that stood toe to toe with nationally ranked SAC foes TexWes and OUAZ and shared the championship with them.
Now enter what Coach Mo says that collectively may be the best class of D Lineman he has signed at one time. Wildcat fans jot these names down. You will hear us call them a number of times in big time circumstances in the upcoming season:
Kawarren Scott, DL from Angleton, TX. 6’1″ 240
Keontei “Skully” Harris, DL from Monroe, LA 6’1″ 250. Those familiar with 2-5A action remember this young man from Neville HS
Korde Sharp, DL, from Bossier City’s Parkway Panthers
Makennie Nichols, DL , 6’0″ 277lbs, from John Ehret in New Orleans. Coach Mo told us Nichols can play anywhere along the DL and oh by the way, benches over 400.
Zion McLain from Spain Park High School in Hoover, AL. No Ceiling on this D lineman… has a motor that doesn’t shut off. Sky is the limit for McLain
O’Marion Smith, 6’2″ 260 CE King HS in Houston, TX
Coach Mo tells us that these guys coming in will all make impacts and help deliver depth to a defensive line that gels more and more every day.
The defensive line for the Cats will look to continue their ways in 2026. With nearly every starter back on defense and no longer just building Chemistry, LCU’s defense should thrive. The Cats early season DI opener with NSU is on the Clock and that defense will be tested right away.
With games against NSU, Southern, and the Battle for the Border Claw against rival ETBU looming, along with Top Tier SAC opponents OUAZ and TXWES Wildcat fans are in for a treat this season.
Tomorrow we will have our overview of the Offensive Backfield and back with the defense on Tuesday so keep it locked in to 446Sports.
ALSO, tune in tomorrow for our exclusive interview with one of LCU’s newest Coaches.
Until tomorrow, #ClawsUp
Doug Gann covers LCU all season long and can be reached at doug@446sports.com
Missed a day? Check them out here: Previous days
Can’t wait for the games? Check out last season games here: 2025
