Ole Miss' 2024 defense set a new standard. The 2026 version has 'a chance to be' better
OXFORD – It’s certainly high praise, particularly given he was on staff at the time and saw just what havoc Ole Miss’ 2024 defense wreaked on opposing offenses. But Ole Miss defensive coordinator Bryan Brown believes the 2026 edition of the Rebels’ defense has a chance to be one for the ages. After a slow start to last season – nine new starters ensured there would be an adjustment period – ...
Oxford's Ole Miss defensive coordinator Bryan Brown has high hopes for the 2026 version of the Rebel defense. After a shaky start to the 2025 season, the unit has steadily improved, ranking 37th nationally in points per game allowed and 48th in yards per game allowed. Despite the departure of star pass rusher Princewill Umanmielen to LSU, Brown is confident the 2026 squad has the talent to outshine their 2024 counterparts.
With key players like junior defensive tackle Will Echoles, junior defensive end Kam Franklin, senior linebacker Suntarine Perkins, senior cornerback Jaylon Braxton, fifth-year cornerback Antonio Kite, and transfer portal newcomers Luke Ferrelli and Keaton Thomas returning, the Rebels appear poised for success. The 2024 defense, featuring All-Americans and All-SEC players, posted the fewest allowed scoring defense since 1993 and featured a dominant defensive front that led the nation in sacks per game.
While the 2026 unit has work to do to match the 2024 team's performance, Brown believes the current group has the potential to be exceptional if they execute at a high level.
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