After a freshman season spent watching and learning, sophomore linebacker Doug Randolph’s eligibility clock begins in 2014. The Woodberry Forest alum, hailing from the same high school program that brought C.J. Prosise and Greer Martini to the Irish, brings another good looking athlete into the mix at linebacker.
While a lingering shoulder injury limited Randolph’s participation last season, he was full go in spring and is fighting for a spot on the two deep in fall camp.
Let’s take a closer look at the Virginia native.
DOUG RANDOLPH
6'2" 240 lbs.
Sophomore, No. 44
RECRUITING PROFILE
Randolph was a Stanford commit until he flipped for the Irish after an official visit in September. A rangy linebacker, it wasn’t exactly clear what position Randolph would play, but he seemed to fit the mold of Big Skill, and had the length Bob Diaco looked for in an inside linebacker.
“Can do a number of different things. He’s somebody that’s long at 6'3", very versatile, can stand up or put his hand down,” Kelly explained. “He gives us that kind of flexibility at that position. Great student, great family.”
A U.S. Army All-American, Rivals rated Randolph one of the Top 150 players in the country, Randolph also starred in the Chesapeake Bowl, showing impressive coverage skills as well as pass rush ability.
PLAYING CAREER
Freshman Season (2013): Did not see action.
UPSIDE POTENTIAL
Randolph’s athleticism is pretty impressive. He was a long-stick middie on the high school lacrosse team and had plenty of high lights as a tight end as well. The biggest question is his fit on the defense, as we’ll see if he develops as a candidate to play in the middle or if he plays on the edge.
During spring drills, Randolph spent time at the Will. If that’s the case in 2014, he’s going to be playing behind Jaylon Smith for at least two seasons. As Brian VanGorder builds situational opportunities for defenders with skills that can help make the Irish better, there’s also a chance that Randolph can slide around to the Sam spot, providing a bigger body than the James Onwualu or John Turner types.
CRYSTAL BALL
A perfect fit to make his impact on special teams, Randolph is the type of athlete that could thrive on cover units, fast enough to get down the field and big even to wreak havoc. He also showed an ability to get after the quarterback in high school, so there’s room for him to find the field if he can show the coaching staff he’s productive enough.
It’s worth considering what Stanford saw in Randolph, likely seeing a candidate to play on the edge of their defense as an outside linebacker. If the Irish do indeed show some 3-4 looks, Randolph’s versatility could be helpful.
With question marks on the defensive side of the ball and a lot of young players fighting to answer them, Randolph’s one of a handful of former big-time recruits with an opportunity to be a part of the next generation.