Kansas's defense finds its voice as experienced leaders step up, fostering communication and speed on the field in spring practice.
Kansas DC D.K. McDonald discusses communication, returning experience during spring practice
D.K. McDonald met with reporters during spring practice this weekend and touched on the early progress of the defense, leadership development and roster additions.
On communication early in spring: “We’re doing a good job demanding it. The good thing is we’ve got guys back at all three levels, so they understand what we’re asking them defensively. You’re seeing a lot more communication because guys are more comfortable. Coaches have done a great job communicating with players too, so it’s been really good.”
On developing leadership from returning players: “It’s about being comfortable. Our guys want to win, and when they realize that’s what it takes, it helps. Those guys have played a lot of reps, so now they feel comfortable speaking up because they know what’s expected and what it takes to play Big 12 football.”
On who has stood out so far: “It’s still early, but it’s been fun to see the guys we’ve had back take steps. You can tell it’s year two in the defense. They look comfortable out there.”
On evaluating year one of the defense: “We did some good things. We’ve got to bottle up how we played in certain games and just be more consistent.”
On what needs to carry over: “How we played, how we tackled, communicated, lined up, stopped explosive plays and created turnovers — those are things we’ve got to build on.”
On adding safeties this offseason: “We wanted to create competition, add length and athleticism, and improve depth. We also wanted a true nickel and guys who can play in space.”
On linebacker additions: “We wanted a true Mike to compete, plus athletic guys who can play in space and give us flexibility, including possibly playing three linebackers.”
On retaining key returners: “It’s important to retain all our guys, especially at Mike linebacker. You can really see the growth in leadership and confidence.”
On generating pass rush: “We think we’ve got guys who can do it. But pressure can come from anywhere — linebackers, safeties — and that makes offenses guess.”
On defensive tackle depth: “I think we’ve improved. We’re in better shape to do more things up front.”
On year two as coordinator: “Not really changing much. It’s still about playing fast and physical for each other.”
On team speed: “We’ve gotten bigger and faster across all three levels. We’ve added guys who can really run.”
On defensive ends coach addition: “He’s a great young coach, a great technician and has a great relationship with his guys. He brings pride being back at his alma mater.”
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