6. Antonio Watts, LB
Another player attempting to carve out his spot in a loaded linebacker room is Antonio Watts. This key linebacker is a returning Cardinal looking to build on the successes he found last season.
The Junior linebacker had a solid year, posting 51 total tackles (31 solo and 20 assisted) as well as forcing one fumble. Watts will bring needed experience to the defense, along with his counterparts, and will provide an additional member who knows what Jeff Brohm and Ron English expect from this side of the football.
Watts has been seen as behind returners TJ Quinn and Stanquan Clark on the depth chart entering fall camp. However, Watts could easily be thrust into a leadership spot rather quickly with his play on the field.
This could also be a year for Watts to cement his role for his senior season as a leader of the defense and a potential NFL prospect. The possibilities are endless for Watts as fans hope to see a breakout year and a strong showing by the Louisville linebacking corps.
Related: Ron English predicts an NFL future for underrated Louisville linebacker