Austin Peay experienced major losses in the defensive backfield after the conclusion of the 2021 season. All-Americans Koby Perry and Kordell Jackson have moved on from the program and Kam Ruffin is also gone from last season’s secondary. The Governors landed two defensive backs in the early signing period, but were still lacking experience at the defensive back position.
That all changed when Ryan Melton announced his commitment to Austin Peay last night on his social media.
https://twitter.com/Shadow17___/status/1531453572805804032
Melton comes to Austin Peay after three seasons at South Alabama, in which he played in over 30 games with 10+ starts for the Jaguars. Over his three seasons, Melton totaled 40 tackles, 4 pass breakups, and 1 forced fumble.
The 6-foot-1 defensive back was a 2-star recruit out of West Point, MS and ranked as a Top-75 recruit in the state of Mississippi. He helped lead West Point High School to a 5A State Championship his senior year after totaling 46 tackles and 3 interceptions on the season.
Melton will offer much needed experience and length to the Austin Peay secondary next season. He is an excellent tackler in the open field and can be extremely physical at the line of scrimmage. In over 300 coverage snaps, Melton has only allowed 3 total touchdowns and has never allowed a play over 30 yards in coverage. The experience and potential of Melton will address multiple needs for the Austin Peay secondary.
Austin Peay will look to compete for the A-SUN Championship this season in their 1st season after their move from the OVC. The Governors open the 2022 season on August 27th against Western Kentucky.
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