Welcome to the 2023 FCS Jersey Countdown.
Leading up to Week 0 games on Aug. 26, HERO Sports will name the best returning FCS player by jersey number, 99-0. Because team rosters are updated at different times across the country and to keep things consistent, jersey numbers are based on last season’s rosters.
The 99-0 countdown central page can be found here.
Note: Jersey numbers are based on 2022 rosters.
93: Lucas Hunter, DL (Sr.) — Indiana State
Hunter is a big, strong presence in the middle of Indiana State’s defense. The 6-foot-2, 280-pounder is tough to move, and he can be a big-time disruptor to offenses.
He earned the team’s Most Improved Award after the 2021 season where he recorded 23 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks.
Hunter took another step forward in 2022 with 35 tackles, 4.5 TFLs, three quarterback hurries, one sack, and one fumble recovery returned for a touchdown.
His best game was against then-No. 1 North Dakota State in a five-point loss, totaling 11 tackles, one TFL, and 0.5 sacks.
In a conference filled with some of the best linemen in the FCS, Hunter earned All-MVFC All-Conference Honorable Mention honors.
Hunter’s strength is apparent at the point of contact. He’s also shown some agility in open space, something that can help him make more splash plays in 2023.
“Really I just want to keep honing my craft,” Hunter told Tribstar.com last month. “Keep getting better at the little things, the details, overall I really want to become a better pass rusher, as well, so that’s my big [focus] for this spring.”
