Welcome to the 2020 FCS Jersey Countdown.
Throughout the May-August months, HERO Sports is going to name the best returning FCS player by jersey number, 99-1. Due to rosters being updated at different times for teams across the country and to keep things consistent, jersey numbers are based on the 2019 season.
The full 99-1 countdown/schedule can be found here.
*Note: Jersey numbers are based on 2019 rosters.
92: Mike Greene, DL (Sr.) — James Madison
Greene will wear No. 3 in 2020.
JMU owned the FCS’ No. 3-ranked rushing defense last year, allowing 74.8 yards per game and just 2.61 yards per carry. While the Dukes had some household, All-American names on the edge of the defensive line, the interior linemen like Mike Greene were instrumental in JMU’s tremendous 2019 defense.
Greene played in nine games as a true freshman in 2017 and then started all 13 games his sophomore year. He raised his play to an All-CAA Third Team level last season, starting all 16 games and accounting for 53 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks and six QB hurries. He was named the team’s Defensive Lineman of the Year.
Greene’s presence made it tough for opposing rushing offenses. He ate up blocks to allow JMU”s two standout linebackers to make plays. But Greene was also productive for a big man. He had the most sacks and TFLs among CAA interior linemen.
The Dukes have a lot of big holes to fill on the defensive side of the ball. But with Greene and nose guard Adeeb Atariwa back, JMU will be tough up the middle once again.
