Spring video recap: defensive backs

Spring camp has wrapped up, and we are going through practice video provided by UGA. The media isn't allowed to shoot video during the open periods, so this is one way our readers can see practice snippets for themselves.

Previous spring video recaps:

Quarterbacks
Running Backs
Wide Receivers
Offensive Line
Defensive Line
Outside Linebacker
Inside Linebacker

Kirby Smart has made defensive back talent a point of emphasis since day one as head coach. The Bulldogs appear to have starters in place and plenty of talent behind them, eager to earn playing time.

Eric Stokes emerged as a possible all-SEC cornerback with a stellar 2018 season. He is the top candidate to fill the role vacated by Deandre Baker. After his electrifying punt block at Missouri, Stokes earned increased playing time and performed well with every opportunity.

Campbell worked hard to meet the high expectation of being a first year starter at UGA. With 11 starts and 45 total tackles, Campbell was often targeted by opposing offensive coordinators. He has all the tools to be a great defender. He does need to work on positioning and timing to avoid pass interference flags.

After spurning an NFL Draft entrance, J.R. Reed returns to Athens as a leader on the field with his physicality, and off the field with his leadership. Reed has started all 29 games of his eligible UGA career. He is a sure-handed tackler with great football instincts.

Richard LeCounte joins J.R. Reed as the other projected starter at safety. As seen below, LeCounte has electrifying foot speed, especially in pursuit of the ball carrier. He was the Bulldogs' leading tackler in 2018. He can improve in wrapping up tackles and taking the most direct path to the football.

Mark Webb has often received praise in the spring, and could be in line for playing time at cornerback. His physical play can help Georgia increase their havoc plays. Below, Webb rushes the line of scrimmage, avoids a block from Kearis Jackson, and makes a stop in the backfield.

Divaad Wilson shined in Sugar Bowl practice and played well versus Texas after returning from injury. He had four tackles and a pass breakup versus the Longhorns. Wilson is in line for playing time at the star position.

The true freshman from south Florida is a versatile talent who could fill a variety of roles in the secondary. The depth chart in front of him is deep and likely prevents him from playing a major role in 2019.

McGhee could prove to be the odd man out in a star-studded position group. Though, he showed his value with two turnovers against Florida last season. McGhee will need to shore up his coverage ability to remain on the field.

Speed only played in two games last season and recorded one tackle versus MTSU.

Smith is a reserve cornerback who saw action in five games in 2018, mostly in garbage time.

Otis Reese, Latavious Brini, and William Poole are all mixed in this group of defensive backs. But, they were not featured in the limited provided video. Reese is the most likely candidate to see the field often in 2019.