Welcome to the 2021 FCS Jersey Countdown.
Leading up to Week 0 games on Aug. 28, HERO Sports is going to name the best returning FCS player by jersey number, 99-0. Due to rosters being updated at different times for teams across the country and to keep things consistent, jersey numbers are based on the 2020 fall-2021 spring season.
The 99-0 countdown central page can be found here.
Note: Jersey numbers are based on 2020 fall-2021 spring rosters.
41: Tyler Dressler, LB (Sr.) — Richmond
Richmond has two legit linebackers leading its defense with Tyler Dressler and Tristan Wheeler. The two are ranked in the Top 20 of returning FCS linebackers. Defensive lineman Kobie Turner is another standout and was recognized as the best No. 98.
The Spiders played in only four games in the spring but had the No. 9 scoring defense with 17.0 points allowed per game. They gave up just 78.5 yards a game on the ground, ranking No. 6 in the FCS. Dressler was named to the All-CAA First Team for the second season in a row, totaling 29 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, one sack, one interception, and two quarterback hurries.
This came after a breakout 2019 season where Dressler racked up 104 tackles in 11 games, including 12 TFLs, four sacks, and four passes defended. He led the CAA with 9.5 tackles per game.
Dressler is a big and physical presence as a 6-foot-3, 245-pound linebacker. Right now, Draft Scout has him as a high-priority free agent after the 2022 NFL Draft. A big senior season can improve Dressler’s stock, along with how he tests athletically.
