Georgia Tech Football: Five Impact Players 2015- CB D.J. White

Another week closer to football we are, and the days at this point are dropping like uga defenders trying to tackle Laskey in last year's game. As we inch closer to the first game of the season, one thing is apparent and has fans excited- D.J. White is back for his senior year.

Coming from in-state Union Grove HS in McDonough HS, White is the latest example of an under-the-radar 3-star who has developed nicely under the watch of CPJ and the rest of the staff. While he chose Tech over offers from Auburn, South Carolina, and Vandy, he was still rated as a top-500 recruit nationally.

Last Season

Throughout the 2014 season, White was a game-changer defensively. While he had his struggles just like the rest of the defense did throughout the season, he grew as a cover corner each and every game, and by the end of the season he was  one of the- if not the best- defender on the team. Statistically, White had the best game of his career in the Orange Bowl win against Mississippi State. He had a career high 3 pass deflections, as well as 4 solo tackles.

While re-watching the games of the 2014 season, it is clear that White is one of the very few corners in today's game that is able to cover the opposing team's best WR, and one possession later be able to tackle their stud running back in the open field. This complete package has several scouts talking, and if/when White hears his name called in the 2016 draft, he will have the 2014 season to look back on as a major reason.

2015 and Beyond

Coming into the season, White and Justin Thomas are expected to be the focal point of the offense and defense, with JHD's return looming as long as he keeps up the good work. If White is going to lead this team to another ACC Coastal title, he is going to have to continue to grind in the defensive backfield, as well as continuing to use good angles in order to tackle better in space. While this shouldn't be Justin's last season, it is D.J.'s. A final season on The Flats means a final chance to win the ACC, something White has to have on his mind after playing in the last two ACC Title games.

If White can continue to grow in his cover skills, and continue to use his elite ball skills and awareness to hound opposing QB's, this defense has the chance to be the best in the CPJ era. Whether or not that happens, well we have about 40 days until TML on September 3rd against Alcorn St.

NOTE- While it doesn't start with music. these highlights end with it. mute your speakers before pushing play.