Texas Tech’s Defensive Unit Gearing Up Under Veteran Leadership Ahead of 2025 Season
As Texas Tech prepares for the 2025 college football season, all eyes are on the Red Raiders’ defense—a unit that struggled with consistency last season but now appears poised for a major turnaround. With a strong mix of returning veterans and fresh talent, defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter is leading an aggressive offseason focused on physicality, speed, and accountability.
The core of this defensive resurgence lies in the leadership of linebacker Jesiah Pierre and safety Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, both of whom elected to return for their senior campaigns. Pierre, known for his instinctive play and sideline-to-sideline range, has become a vocal leader during spring practices. Taylor-Demerson, a ball hawk in the secondary, brings valuable experience and versatility, providing a stabilizing presence for a young defensive backfield.
Coach DeRuyter has emphasized simplified schemes to let players play fast and free. “We want these guys reacting, not thinking,” DeRuyter said. “That’s when you see turnovers, sacks, and big momentum swings.”
Spring workouts have also highlighted emerging stars, including sophomore defensive lineman Joseph Adedire, whose explosiveness off the edge has created major problems for the offensive line during scrimmages. Freshman cornerback Malik Monroe has turned heads with his speed and ball skills, likely earning early playing time.
The Red Raiders’ defense is being built around toughness and discipline—traits the coaching staff believes are critical to climbing the Big 12 standings. With a demanding schedule ahead, including matchups against high-powered offenses like Texas and Kansas State, Tech’s defensive improvements will be critical.
If the early signs are any indication, Texas Tech’s defense could go from liability to strength in 2025—turning close losses into gritty wins and putting the Red Raiders back in the Big 12 title conversation.
