Countdown to 2020 IUFB Kickoff: Day 17 (Raheem Layne)

Written by Evan McShane

 The Hoosier Huddle annual countdown continues, just over three weeks away from Indiana’s season-opener against Penn State. Today we have a double header. Let’s take a look at defensive back Raheem Layne and wide receiver Jordan Jakes (posting later).

Name – Raheem Layne

Position – Safety      

Year/Hometown – Senior from Deland, FL (Sebastian River HS)

Height – 6’1”

Weight – 197lbs 

Raheem Layne arrived in Bloomington back in 2017 and made an immediate impact on the field. Layne appeared in all 12 games and started one as a true freshman. He was recognized as IU’s Defensive Newcomer of the Year. Layne played in all 12 games again his sophomore year, started in seven of them, and tallied 39 total tackles.

Last season, Layne played in each game for the third straight season and racked up 30 tackles. Layne led all cornerbacks with 28 solo tackles. Head coach Tom Allen and his staff validated Layne’s 2019 performance by naming him IU’s Special Team Player of the Year.

During spring practice, Layne was moved from cornerback to safety. Layne is dealing with nagging injuries sustained during camp and it is unclear whether he will be able to continue his iron-man streak. Layne will wait until he is 100% healthy before returning to the field, but when he does, he’ll provide the Hoosiers with much-needed experience and stability in the secondary.