Veteran Transfers Who Could Start on Day One
We wrap up our four-part breakdown of UNLV’s 2025 defensive backs with a look at three veteran transfers who bring immediate upside to the secondary. These players, each arriving from Power Five or FCS programs, offer starting-caliber traits and production. Whether it’s length, athleticism, or proven ball skills, this trio could shape the Rebels’ starting lineup as soon as Week 0.
Laterrance Welch – Junior, Lafayette, LA
Career Stats (LSU, Arizona State):
2024 (ASU): 175 snaps | 64.5 DEF | 53.7 COV | 68.4 overall
2023 (LSU): 96 snaps | 55.1 DEF | 61.8 COV
2022 (LSU): 52 snaps | 70.8 DEF | 71.4 COV
Coverage: 27 catches on 36 targets (75.0%) | 343 yards | 12.7 Y/REC | 2 INT | 5 PBUs
Welch joins UNLV with SEC and Big 12 experience, and it shows. His coverage skills flashed as a freshman at LSU, then again in spurts at Arizona State last year. Despite a dip in PFF coverage grades in 2023 and 2024, Welch brings proven length (6’1”) and deep-ball tracking. He allowed just two touchdowns across three seasons and has a legitimate chance to earn a starting corner job opposite Mumu Bin-Wahad.
Denver Harris – Senior, Houston, TX
Career Stats (Texas A&M, LSU, UTSA):
2024 (UTSA): 397 snaps | 64.5 DEF | 63.2 COV | 89.2 PRSH
2023 (LSU): 217 snaps | 64.1 DEF | 59.0 COV
2022 (Texas A&M): 211 snaps | 81.5 TACK | 69.8 COV
Coverage: 18 catches on 45 targets (40.0%) | 222 yards | 12.3 Y/REC | 5 INT | 5 PBUs
Harris is arguably the most talented DB on the entire roster. Once a five-star recruit, he’s now a well-traveled veteran with elite measurables and an exceptional 2024 pressure grade (89.2). Harris has allowed just 40% of passes thrown his way to be completed across three stops. He brings physicality, blitz versatility, and lockdown potential if he’s focused and healthy; he’s a Week 1 starter.
Andrew Powdrell – Junior, The Woodlands, TX
Career Stats (Montana State):
2024: 602 snaps | 62.0 DEF | 60.3 COV
2023: 385 snaps | 59.9 DEF | 56.2 COV
Coverage: 49 catches on 81 targets (55.6%) | 510 yards | 11.3 Y/REC | 5 INT | 0 PBUs
Powdrell flew under the radar at FCS power Montana State but arrives at UNLV as a quietly effective cover man. His five career interceptions and 987 total snaps suggest strong ball-tracking and zone discipline. While he may not have the raw tools of Harris or Welch, Powdrell brings proven production and could thrive in a rotational role or STAR package.
Final Thoughts: The Ceiling Rises
UNLV’s secondary has taken massive strides forward in depth, length, and experience. With additions like Harris, Welch, and Powdrell joining established playmakers like Amaris Brown and Jaheem Joseph, the Rebels have the strongest defensive back group of the modern era.
The real question? How will Paul Guenther piece it all together.
Thanks for reading our complete four-part Scarlet Shields breakdown. Whether you’re a film junkie or just want to know who to watch come Week 0, this series gives you the full landscape of the UNLV secondary entering fall camp.