Eric Gay/Associated Press
What went wrong
In 2015, defensive coordinator John Chavis compared Donovan Wilson to Tyrann Mathieu. It was deserved attention for a nickelback who emerged as a playmaker in Texas A&M’s secondary, notching 8.5 tackles for loss, five interceptions and three forced fumbles. But Wilson only occasionally disrupted last season, managing 5.5 TFL and one pick.
What’s changed
Put simply, it’s not 2016 anymore. Wilson has a great opportunity to bounce back, particularly because the Aggies will be counting on him to help replace Justin Evans’ production—potentially both as a safety and nickelback.
2017 prediction
Wilson has shown the ability to contribute in coverage, in run support and as an occasional blitzer, but it’s a matter of those three happening simultaneously and on a more consistent basis. While we don’t expect a dominant year, Wilson will be All-SEC-worthy despite A&M’s expected struggles.