clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Nesta Silvera and Jon Ford Interview: On defensive line, “We can be incredible”

The hype continues to build for the Hurricanes defensive line

By marshthomas
Louisville v Miami Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images

On Tuesday, following head coach Manny Diaz, defensive tackles Nesta Jade Silvera and Jon Ford spoke to the media.

Silvera, a junior, enters 2020 with high expectations, but hasn’t taken it for granted.

“I’ve got to come to work every day. I’ve got young guys pushing me. I’ve got to come to work every day,” said Silvera.

Silvera suffered an injury during fall camp last year, and returned mid-way through the 2019 season. He finished with 19 tackles, 1 sack and 1 TFL.

Even with the early departure of Gregory Rousseau, Silvera is still confident about Miami’s defensive line.

“Losing Greg was obviously a tremendous loss because that’s a freak of nature out there, but we have a lot of depth,” said Silvera.

He also mentioned Jaelan Phillips, Quincy Roche and Cameron Williams.

“We have Jaelan, super long, super quick. Quincy is just a savvy vet. He knows football. Cam made a complete 360 since March.”

Silvera also said that Jalar Holley is “a pass rushing machine.”

When talking about the offensive line, Silvera was asked about Ousman Traore, and the group as a whole.

“He’s (Traore) definitely a technician out there. The whole o-line, they definitely they created a little bond. They’re working”

When it was Ford’s time to talk, he was asked about Silvera, and how he’s progressed this offseason.

“He’s been excellent this whole camp. His movement has really improved on the field. Everyone knows he has the power and is real strong. I can’t wait to see him play,” Ford said.

On the defensive line, Ford sounded very excited and confident in the unit, as do all Canes fans.

“We can be incredible, especially with those guys on the edge. I’m real excited about this group.” Ford says he’s learned a lot from Quincy Roche.

Ford noted that he pulled his hamstring during the quarantine phase, but worked with the strength staff at Miami and that “nothing’s fallen off.”

He finished his junior season in 2019 with 18 tackles, 3 sacks 3.5 TFLs.

Finally, on their upcoming season opener against UAB, and what kind of team the Blazers are, “I know they play hard. They won some games in their conference. We’re looking to match their intensity or give even more. They’re a great team,” Ford said.