Pictured are West Liberty football’s defensive backs. The Hilltoppers open the season Thursday, August 28th at Walsh University. The home opener is Saturday, September 6 against Seton Hill at 1 p.m. at West Family Stadium.

WEST LIBERTY – When it comes to competition at West Liberty University, no position group is hotter than the defensive backfield. With 23 players vying for playing time, head coach Roger Waialae says this year’s DB unit is the most athletic he’s had in years.

At the nickelback spot, the Hilltoppers return redshirt freshman Jamison Holliday, who saw limited action last season. He’ll face stiff competition from redshirt freshman Davon Eldridge, graduate Charles Coy III, and freshman Darius Gross, all of whom are looking to carve out meaningful roles.

The cornerback position features only one returner: sophomore Junus McGraw, who recorded an interception and four pass breakups in eight games last season. He will compete with graduate transfer Christian Bell, who led the NJCAA in pass breakups in 2023 with 15, as well as five freshmen — Kenshiro Christopher, Jemier Faulks, Jaay-r Cook, and KJ Wood — each hoping to make an immediate impact.

At safety, the Hilltoppers boast the experienced duo of seniors Justice Lawrence and Nasir Lawrence, twin brothers who previously played together at Wingate University. They will be joined by talented freshmen DeMontay Johnson, Brayden Marson, Tyler Lawson, and Cashmere Caldwell, adding depth and versatility to the secondary.

Waialae says the combination of returning experience and athletic newcomers gives the unit a chance to be a defining strength for the Hilltoppers’ defense in 2025. “We have more speed and versatility back there than we’ve had in a long time,” he said. “Competition is going to be fierce, and that only makes our team better.”

With depth, experience, and a wave of athletic talent, West Liberty’s defensive backs are ready to make plays, create turnovers, and challenge opponents.

The Hilltoppers open the season Thursday, Aug. 28th at Walsh University. The home opener is Saturday, Sept. 6 against Seton Hill at 1 p.m. at West Family Stadium.