Five Breakout Players for Arizona Football in 2018

TUCSON, AZ - NOVEMBER 11: Offensive lineman Layth Friekh #58 of the Arizona Wildcats prepares to take the field with teammates before the college football game against the Oregon State Beavers at Arizona Stadium on November 11, 2017 in Tucson, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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McKenzie Barnes (Image Courtesy of 247 Sports) /

Honorable Mention: Freshman Cornerback- McKenzie Barnes

I decided to add an honorable mention, since it is hard to just keep it to five players. It is also very difficult to make the list as a true freshman, but in my opinion if there is a true freshman to possibly breakout this year, it’s cornerback, McKenzie Barnes.

A standout at Edison High School in Fresno, CA, Barnes was a solid pick-up for the Wildcats. He has great size, athleticism and toughness, and given the current state of the Wildcats’ defensive backfield, anything is possible.

I envision Barnes having more of a role on special teams, but could possibly see his responsibilities increase as the season progresses.

I would look for him to possibly be an early contributor for the Wildcats in 2018 and beyond!

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