DMN: Breakout players to watch at TCU: Look for Niko Small to take a big step forward

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DMN: Breakout players to watch at TCU: Look for Niko Small to take a big step forward

By Reece Kelley Graham, Staff Writer
Contact Reece Kelley Grahamon TwitterReeceKelleyG

You know the big names but here are five guys who are about to burst on the scene for TCU:

1. Niko Small, Junior, FS
Niko Small is hardly the first Horned Frog most would think of when talking about breakout candidates. He finished third on the team in tackles last season (83), led TCU with nine pass breakups and hauled in two interceptions. He was also named defensive MVP of last season's Liberty Bowl. And yet, he still seems poised to do more this season. Head coach Gary Patterson was very impressed with Small this spring, and it could be argued that he stood out the most this offseason. Small is also advantaged by getting to work with Nick Orr, one of the best safeties in the Big 12. Orr and cornerback Ranthony Texada are the seniors of this secondary, but be prepared for Small to become the alpha.

Read more at https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/co...cu-good-look-niko-small-take-big-step-forward