Illini Sports Blog

Zook opens up

Zook also had positive comments about juco transfer Aaron Gress, Ian Thomas and second-year prospects Justin Staples, Evan Frierson and Nate Palmer.

"It's a concern to have so much inexperience at linebacker, but I'm optimistic," he said. "Frierson may be the most natural linebacker of them all but he was far behind after missing summer camp (late clearinghouse records). During his (redshirt) season, all he did was run the opposing team's defense for us to practice against. I think he'll contribute. And all these guys can help on coverage units with our special teams."

There is much talk about recruiting more linebackers - as though the talent is lacking - but the feeling here is that these young athletes will be more than adequate by mid-season and will turn this into a position of strength by 2010.

Tate

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