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The first look at UNLV’s 2025 secondary begins with six defensive backs whose profiles and performance data offer insight into how Dan Mullen and interim DC Paul Guenther may structure the back end of the Rebel defense. From veteran transfers with Power Five pedigrees to promising underclassmen, this group reflects both the volatility and upside of a roster in transition.
Quandarius Keyes – Junior, Laurel, MS
No Stats RecordedKeyes enters the fall as a bit of a mystery. The 6’1” corner from Laurel, Mississippi, hasn’t logged official defensive snaps yet at the FBS level, but his frame and high school pedigree make him an intriguing piece. Whether he factors into the rotation will depend heavily on his contributions to fall camp and special teams early in the season.
Mumu Bin-Wahad – Sophomore, Atlanta, GA
2023 (UConn): 521 snaps | 76.2 DEF | 77.1 COV2022 (West Virginia): 31 snaps | 63.6 DEF | 59.6 COVBin-Wahad arrives as one of the most seasoned coverage backs on the roster. His 2023 campaign at UConn was quietly excellent, with a PFF coverage grade of 77.1 across 299 coverage snaps. He allowed just 7.7 yards per reception and recorded 1 INT and 4 PBUs. Look for Bin-Wahad to compete for immediate starting reps at nickel or boundary corner.
Jake Pope – Junior, Buford, GA
2024 (Georgia): 11 snaps | 58.4 DEF | 57.4 COV2023 (Alabama): 23 snaps | 68.0 DEF | 63.2 COVAnother SEC transfer, Pope brings valuable experience from two of the nation's premier programs. While his live reps have been limited (34 total), he graded out well in short bursts, particularly in tackling (79.6 in 2023). Pope will have a significant role in 2025.
Amaris Brown – Senior, Tampa, FL
2024 (USF): 359 snaps | 59.6 DEF | 56.3 COV2023 (USF): 675 snaps | 68.1 DEF | 67.8 COV2022 (USF): 249 snaps | 65.8 DEF | 66.3 COV2020–21 (Kansas State): 140 snaps combinedThe most battle-tested DB in the room, Brown brings over 1,400 career snaps and consistent production. While his 2024 numbers dipped slightly, Brown has proven to be a steady presence in coverage and run fits. His 2023 season stands out: 5 PBUs, 2 INTs, and only 6.1 yards per target. Expect him to provide leadership and versatility at either safety or corner.
Tre Fulton – RS Freshman, Bakersfield, CA
2024 (UNLV): 8 snaps | 52.3 DEF | 47.8 COVFulton saw limited time last fall but is physically gifted at 6’3” with long arms and an aggressive demeanor. His small sample size in 2024 showed promise in tackling (79.6) but room for growth in coverage. His length and athleticism may translate best in deep zone or boundary assignments.
Joshua Tuchek – Freshman, Long Beach, CA
No Stats RecordedA Rivals-rated corner from Long Beach Poly, Tuchek headlines the incoming freshman DB class. Though he hasn’t recorded collegiate snaps yet, his size (6’1”) and high school tape suggest he could push for a special teams role or redshirt development path in 2025.
Closing Thoughts
The Rebels' defensive backfield remains a puzzle, partly due to the coaching transition and partly due to the influx of new faces. What’s clear is that UNLV has assembled a group with upside, length, and legitimate Power Five experience. How quickly these pieces come together may decide just how aggressive Guenther can be with his pressure packages this fall.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll profile additional DB depth, incoming freshmen, and special teams contributors to round out the full picture of UNLV’s 2025 secondary.