The five toughest seniors to replace for UTC next season

UTC defensive lineman Davis Tull

Davis Tull (Defensive end): The Mocs probably can't replace everything the three-time All America meant to them. The Southern Conference's career sacks leader and a player so good he demanded a constant double team, which freed up other defenders to make plays.

UTC defensive lineman Vantrell McMillan runs during a Mocs' football practice.

Likely replacement: Vantrell McMillan has shown flashes of the quick-twitch ability to blow past blockers and get to the quarterback in a hurry. Ability isn't a question for the rising junior. He just needs to become consistent.

UTC running back Keon Williams, left, crosses into the end zone ahead of Samford defensive back James Brandberry for a touchdown.

Keon Williams (Running back): The SoCon's most physical runner, he surpassed the 1,000-yard mark and finished tied as UTC's career leader in rushing touchdowns. He was a great short-yardage weapon and gained much of that yardage after initial contact.

UTC's Derrick Craine runs the ball in for a touchdown against VMI on Oct. 4. The backup tailback has made some key contributions already.

Likely replacement: Derrick Craine is about 20-pounds lighter than Williams but at 205 pounds, the rising junior is still a physical runner and proved he can get the tough yards as well as outrun defenders several times this season.

Moc linebacker Muhasibi Wakeel looks to the sidelines.

Muhasibi Wakeel (Linebacker): He led the team in tackles, finishing with 20 more than the next closest defender, and became an All-Conference player. The Mocs will also miss his quiet leadership on and off the field.

Likely replacement: While Nakevion Leslie will likely nail down one linebacker spot, the other will be a battle between returners A.J. Hampton, T.J. Jenkins and Dale Warren. Hampton will be a senior and is the bigger body, but Jenkins and Warren, both rising sophomores, have proven they can get to the ball in a hurry. This rotation will be stout regardless of who gets the start.

Faysal Shafaat (Tight end): A two-time All America, he was Jacob Huesman's security blanket when the Mocs needed to throw in short yardage or goal line situations. And he was plenty athletic enough to not only make tough catches on jump-balls, but also outrun linebackers for big gains.

Likely replacement: While rising Troy Dye, rising junior Kevin Niethammer and rising sophomore Malcolm Colvin all saw action, don't be surprised if UAB transfer Steven Pickren either wins the job or sees loads of playing time. At 6-5, 255 he's a big, strong target.

Tommy Hudson (Receiver, punt returner): He was not only the Mocs leading receiver -- in catches, yards and TDs -- but was also an all-conference punt returner, bringing two back for scores.

Likely replacement: C.J. Board will likely move to the slot position and get first crack at returning punts. Receiver has the potential to be one of the deepest positions, with Xavier Borishade and Alphonso Stewart both returning, along with a healthy James Stovall and several talented freshmen who redshirted.