7. Wes Bailey, DL
Transfer Wes Bailey entered the season looking to return to pre-injury form after being plagued the last year at his previous stop at Rutgers. Bailey not only returned to pre-injury form, but also had the best year of his college career. The senior defensive end was an absolute force for opposing quarterbacks, posting six sacks to go along with his 39 tackles (17 solo). He made his presence felt all season and, along with Clev Lubin, provided one of the best defensive pass rushes in all of college football.
Bailey’s production was one of the major reasons Louisville could lean on its defense and win many of its games, especially early in the season. He elevated his play in moments when Louisville needed it most. His most memorable performance came against CFP-bound James Madison, when Bailey posted 8 tackles and a memorable sack in the 2nd half, helping solidify the Louisville win. His presence this season and his production in the pass rush will be missed next season.