Dover, Del. (Aug. 18, 2018) --- Delaware State is hoping some key additions, along with moves to bring more speed, will produce better results from its defensive front this season.

The Hornets were 10th out of 11 teams in the MEAC with 13 sacks in 2017 (1.2 pg), with front linemen accounting for just three of the sacks a year ago.

Delaware State's new defensive coordinator Mark James also serves as defensive line coach. He believes the front line has made significant strides since he assumed the position prior to spring camp.

“The returning players have worked extremely hard to learn our system and push each other to get better,” James said. “I'm also excited about the newcomers we've added to the line since spring.”

Seniors Caleb Hebron (6-4/270) and Jacob Jones (6-3/330), along with sophomore Isaiah Williams (6-2/295) are the top returning front line players.

Hebron is the returning leader among Hornet linemen with 18 tackles, including one behind the line-of-scrimmage, last season. Jones had 13 tackles in 2017, one resulting in a safety.

The top newcomer to the line is Marshall University transfer Jason Smith (sr.; 6-2/295). Smith recorded 35 tackles in two full seasons with the FBS Thundering Herd. He was tops among Marshall defensive linemen with four pass break-ups during his sophomore season.

The Hornets have also added former Temple University signee Carrington Jones (r-fr.; 6-1/280) to the line. Jones transferred to DSU this summer after sitting out the 2017 season with the FBS Owls.

In an effort to generate more speed from the ends, the Hornets have moved former linebackers Moses Dupre (jr.; 6-2/250) and Juwan DeVone (jr.; 6-2/215) to the line.

Dupre recorded 13 tackles, including three backfield stops, and a 35-yard fumble return, while DeVone had 12 tackles (seven solo) in 2017.

Former Glasgow High School standout Shereef Flowers (so.; 6-1/285) joins the defensive line this season, while Christian Johnson (sr.; 6-2/250) returns after sitting out the 2017 season due to injury.