Raheem Layne is Making Sure There is No Drop Off in the Hoosiers Secondary as He Returns to the Field
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Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)
Like many of us in Big Ten Country Indiana defensive back Raheem Layne thought there would be no football season once it was cancelled in August. Layne was battling an injury that ended up needing surgery. A surgery he went ahead and got because there was no season to be played. He was wrong, but now he is back and ready to continue what his teammates established in 2020.
Layne told the media about his injury and the events that led to his decision to end his 2020 season on the injured list.
“I was feeling good, but it was just something where I thought the season was over so when they had the cancelation in the fall I decided to go ahead and fix it.” Layne explained. “I knew we were in good hands, so I wanted to make sure that I was taking care of myself. I knew I was coming back for another year and I wanted to make sure I would be feeling good the whole time. I also wanted to make sure that I was able to go out there and give it all I have.”
The Hoosiers secondary is returning most of its production from a fantastic 2020 season that saw IU lead the nation in interceptions per game (2.13) and second nationally in total interceptions (17). So how can Layne help the defense take the next step? The senior explained in his own words what his expectations are for 2021.
“I am trying to make sure that there is no drop off. Make sure we are bringing all the younger guys along with us and continue on the path we are on. I feel like we are on a good path, headed toward success and we are trying to continue to go in the upward direction.” Layne said in a press conference Tuesday morning.
Layne has played in 37 games for the Hoosiers since the 2017 season and has seen some success. Layne has tallied 82 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, six passes defensed and a forced fumble. He was also named IU’s special team’s player of the year after the 2019 season.
Prior to his injury in 2020, Layne was preparing to move from cornerback to safety. A transition that is still in the works. “When I was playing corner, I tried to make sure that I did a good job of learning our overall defense. Our defense has stayed the same so all that is different is my position on the field and it has been a smooth transition. I feel natural back there, so I feel like it is going to be a really good year.” Layne said.
Layne will have to fight for playing time again in 2021 as the young secondary players have closed the talent gap. However, with the Hoosiers losing safety Jamar Johnson to the NFL Draft, there could be an opportunity for Layne to have an impact senior season.