J. Ford: Tech's class addresses needs

Louisiana Tech addressed a lot of needs in this class. Those needs are a result of the defensive line losing two monsters in DT Vernon Butler and DE Vontarrius Dora to graduation, the offensive line losing Jens Danielson plus several more next year and the defensive backfield losing three of four starters -- not to mention Tech's best running back arguably ever, Kenneth Dixon.

Addressing the defensive line was done in very impressive fashion as Tech added two 3-star DEs in Kalan Ritchie and Willie Baker along with another defensive linemen who many think probably should have been a 3-star, KaDerrion Mason. All three will likely get playing time next season.

The offensive line was addressed with former Texas Tech Red Raider Josh Outlaw who out of high school had offers from just about everyone. Outlaw likely steps right in for Danielson. The interior of Tech's OL will look drastically different this time next year as Kirby Wixson, Joseph Brunson, David Mahaffey and Darrell Brown all walk out the door. So, Tech signed Drew Melancon, Kody Russey and Taylor Fondal to go along with last year's signees of O'Shea Dugas who started as a true freshman and Devante Lovett who redshirted.

The defensive backfield will benefit from transfers who came in last year and sat out in Ronald Lewis and Jerrell Jackson since Adairius Barnes, Bryson Abraham and Kentrell Brice all graduated. To go along with the transfers Tech signed several long rangy athletes to compete there beginning with JUCO safety Damarion King. Monroe Ouachita cornerback Zach Hannibal only played two years of high school football and has tremendous upside at 6-foot, 170 pounds. Athletes L'Jarius Sneed and David Beasley are versatile and could play defensive back or wide receiver if need be.

Grade: B

Most underrated signee: Kody Russey