Due to defections, injuries and other issues, the Arizona linebacking corps returns just two scholarship players -- starters Paul Vasallo and Derek Earls. Around them will be youngsters in their first Arizona camp this fall, which leaves this unit very thin.
A third 'backer, Jake Fischer, was making a big impact in the spring until tearing an ACL in the final scrimmage. His return is very questionable, perhaps by the mid-point of the season. Linebacker is usually a team strength, but with only two bodies with any experience -- an injury or two could really cause problems defensively.