100 Days of Summer: Get to Know No. 18 Za’Carrius Green

The subject of our next edition is a third-year sophomore who’s bidding for an increased role in 2017. And he could get it.

How he got to OSU

Green chose the Cowboys over offers from Iowa, Iowa State, Kansas and Louisiana Tech. The three-star outside linebacker from Duncanville High School (Texas) earned all-district honors his junior and senior seasons. Glenn Spencer targeted him as a Division-I safety for his speed and nose for the ball he showed from the OLB position. He also showed to be a very good tackler in space.

What he’s done in Stillwater

After a redshirt year in 2015, Green played in five games as a freshman last year, getting most of his burn on special teams. But with Jordan Sterns and Derrick Moncrief departing, and with the three-down scheme OSU will be running, there are reps to be had. Green will be in the mix to earn them.

After coming in at 190, Green has added 15 pounds under the tutelage of Rob Glass and should be ready for a role on defense.

Role in 2017

Apparently, according to another Big 12 head coach, Green could be a difference maker for Oklahoma State. Sports Illustrated interviewed rival coaches for each top 25 team and the anonymous Big 12 coach named Green as one who to watch for this year.

Here’s what was said about the Cowboy defense.

It’s a tough conference, and there are so many great offenses, but they’re [Oklahoma State] one of the tougher defenses to play against and prepare for. The safety, Za’Carrius Green, looks like a guy who can give teams trouble. And [corner turned safety] Ramon Richards is probably one of their better players. [Sports Illustrated]

Noteworthy stats and highlights

Recorded just four tackles on special teams last season. Led the orange team during this year’s spring game with seven total tackles (five solo).

Green hasn’t gotten a ton of film at OSU yet, but here’s a look at some of what stuck out to Glenn Spencer from his high school tape.