The Troy Trojans football team wrapped up fall camp this week. The team prepared for the season running position drills, plays and just workouts. With the third least returning talent in the NCAA, this fall camp was crucial for the team to get prepared for the season.
Troy returns minimal starters on both sides of the ball, but the starters that did return are crucial to the success of the team. Wideout Devonte Ross and offensive lineman Daniel King are the two most important returning starters on the offensive side of the ball. Running back Damien Taylor also returns to the team, but this time as RB1.
Ross was recognized as Preseason All-Sun Belt Fourth Team after putting up 428 yards and three touchdowns last season. Ross’s improvement at fall camp has not gone unnoticed by his teammates as well.
“The hardest to cover during camp has most definitely been Ross,” said junior safety Devin Lafayette. “He goes all in, all day every day.”
On the defensive side linebackers Jordan Stringer and Terry Thomas make their return to the field. Both saw game action last season but only Stringer saw a starting role. Defensive end Phillip Lee also saw limited starts last season but will now be one of Troy’s best edge rushers.
The defensive back room is where Troy lost most of its talent. Troy returns zero starters at any of the DB positions, but many have stepped up during fall camp to fill in those roles.
“I feel like we are building a connection,” Lafayette said. “I feel like if we keep building these relationships, we can be ready to go during the season.”
Despite losing so many experienced players at the position, Troy head coach Gerad Parker says he enjoys the talent the team has there.
“I have been very impressed with the depth we have at corner,” Parker said.
Senior cornerback Damaje Yancey has made a name for himself during fall camp, catching the eyes of Parker. Yancey played limited time last season sitting behind O’Shai Fletcher and Don Callis, but this year he gets the chance to be the true CB1 that the Troy defense needs.
“On defense you have seen some guys arise as leaders,” Coach Parker said. “Yancey is one of those that has developed those skills for the corner room.”
Fall camp ends on Tuesday, Aug. 13, and the team will turn their attention to preparing for the regular season opener on August 31 against Nevada.
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