Watch: 5 best things linebacker Tony Fields said after Arizona's spring practice

Arizona's defense finished the 2018 season on a sour note after rival ASU overcame a 19-point deficit in the Territorial Cup game in Tucson. 

Even worse, the Wildcats ended the season ranked No. 92 in FBS in total defense after giving up 432 yards per game and 5.73 yards per play. 

The defense lost both interior defensive linemen in PJ Johnson and Dereck Boles, but returned Colin Schooler and Tony Fields at linebacker. Coaching Schooler and Fields will be former safeties coach John Rushing, who flipped positions with defensive coordinator Marcel Yates prior to spring practice.

Last season, Schooler and Fields led the team with 201 tackles combined. Now entering his third season with the program, Fields looks to be one of the key components of Arizona's defense. 

Fields spoke to the media following Wednesday's practice, here's what he had to say. 

Arizona linebacker Tony Fields on the Wildcats having more depth at LB this season: pic.twitter.com/Q8dVNbT7W5

— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) March 28, 2019

What is a leader? Arizona linebacker Tony Fields explains... pic.twitter.com/OtItvpXxxo

— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) March 28, 2019

Arizona LB Tony Fields says DB Chris Roland and WR Jaden Mitchell have been the most impressive newcomers for the Wildcats. “(Roland) is crazy athletic and he’s not scared.” pic.twitter.com/oMkVa0HI4c

— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) March 28, 2019

Tony Fields says WR Cedric Peterson and DE JB Brown have been impressive for Arizona this spring. pic.twitter.com/GnvEJDfEsW

— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) March 28, 2019

Tony Fields on his connection with Jaden Mitchell, and the culture of high school football in Las Vegas: pic.twitter.com/7iDuK8SA5V

— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) March 28, 2019