GREENVILLE, S.C. -- On the surface the 2024 season projects as a transition year for Furman's offensive front, which saw the departure of four regulars with a combined 112 starts off last year's 10-3, Southern Conference championship team that advanced to the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs.

Among the top losses were All-American and SoCon Jacobs Blocking Award guard Jacob Johanning, a free agent signee of the Las Vegas Raiders, All-SoCon tackle Pearson Toomey, and center Wyatt Hughes, another Paladin all-conference pick a year ago.

While the headline departures are significant, the cast of returnees is by no means short of experience, evidenced in the fact that four of the Paladins' projected front line players own starts and five lettermen are in the unit.

"Obviously we have to replace some experienced guys who were really good players for us," said head coach Clay Hendrix, "but we have continued to develop from that group and have a core of veterans who are ready to step in."

The two leaders are a pair of redshirt seniors — Blake Hundley (6-3, 287, R-Sr.) and E.J. Wilson (6-4, 288, R-Sr.).

"It starts with those two guys, Blake and E.J.," added Hendrix.  "They've both played a bunch and started multiple games for us, including some big games.  They're very bright guys and are also dependable and versatile, having played several positions.  I feel really good about them being in there.  They are good players."

Hundley, who logged four starts a year ago, including one at tackle and three at guard, has seen action in 27 games and garnered 531 play participations in his career.  He projects at right tackle.

Wilson appears to have in the inside track to start at right guard, where last year he posted four starts and 299 play participations.  He's seen action in 21 games as a Paladin.

The return of Luke Petit (6-4, 285, R-Jr.), a recent preseason first team All-SoCon selection by the coaches, is a big plus after he sustained a season ending knee injury six games into the 2023 campaign.

"Luke was a starter and was having a solid year until he got hurt against Samford (27-21 road victory).  He's another veteran who is entering his fourth year in the program."

Petit posted 331 plays over his six starts at left guard a year ago before exiting the lineup.

Another fourth-year performer, Ryan Lamb (6-2, 285, R-Jr.) can play center or guard but appears likely slated at guard.

"Ryan's battled some injuries that have cost him some playing time.  He had a very solid spring practice, so we hope to see that continue."

The top candidate to step in at center is Chris Luna (6-3, 290, R-Fr.).

"We moved Chris to center a year ago, and he dressed for every game.  We were able to redshirt him, and he's getting better and better."

Expected to provide depth at center is Luke Westerman (6-2, 270, R-So.), who is entering his third year in the program.

Eli Brasher (6-4, 288, R-So.) appears to be the leading candidate to take over at left tackle. 

"Eli was coming on well last year before he had an injury setback.  He's had a good offseason and preseason, so we'll likely slide him in.  He's played both sides (tackle).

The Paladins could also get a lift from Brody Balliew (6-5, 288, R-Fr.).

"Brody has good instincts and length and likes to play.  I feel like he will see a lot of action for us."

It remains to be seen if Tex Elliott (6-4, 295, R-Sr.) will be able to contribute following an offseason injury that continues to sideline him.  The Colorado State transfer from a year ago may return to the practice field in September.

Hayden Garner (6-5, 292, R-Fr.) is expected to battle to join the two-deep at guard.

It's rare when a true freshman offensive lineman earns mention for potential playing time, so when Hendrix speaks of Stephen O'Dell (6-7, 300, Fr.) as one to watch among the newcomers, it resonates.

The product of Broome High School was named 2023 3A Upperstate Lineman of the Year and was a two-time all-state selection.

"Stephen was highly recruited and is a smart player who has been here all summer.  He has the physical ability to step in and play for us."

Four other newcomers, including signees Chase Gregorek (6-4, 275, Fr.), who is coming off shoulder surgery, and Noah Akinsola (6-5, 285, Fr.), along with Parker Solano (6-2, 275, Fr.) and Jason Gagnon (6-3, 260, Fr.), round out the unit.

Furman's Fan Fest is slated for Saturday, Aug. 17, in Paladin Stadium.

Furman kicks off its 2024 season on Saturday, August 31, at Ole Miss in a 7:00 p.m. ET contest. 

Click HERE for Furman's complete 2024 schedule.

Paladin fans can renew or purchase new season tickets online by clicking HERE, or by calling Dwight Covington or Houghton Flanagan, or by emailing Houghton.Flanagan@Furman.edu.