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Stanford Linebacker Tristan Sinclair To Return For Sixth Season in 2024

Tristain Sinclair will be running it back for the Cardinal in 2024
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When Troy Taylor took over as Stanford's head coach ahead of the 2023 season he ran into a problem that not many programs face across the country, which was the mass departure of fifth-year players that couldn't be replaced. 

A slew of players who had graduated from Stanford opted to transfer elsewhere after David Shaw stepped down, leaving Taylor with one of the most inexperienced teams in all of college football with strict portal rules. However, while Stanford lost 17 players, one notable name that stuck around was linebacker Tristan Sinclair. 

Nov 18, 2023; Stanford, California, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) throws an incomplete pass as he is tackled by Stanford Cardinal linebacker Tristan Sinclair (8) during the first quarter at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports

Stanford linebacker Tristan Sinclair hitting Cal quarterback Fernando Mendoza 

Following in his father's footsteps, Sinclair opted to return and help turn this program around under Taylor. He was a consistent bright spot on defense, as his leadership and fiery play often provided the defense with a needed boost. On Wednesday, Sinclair revealed via social media that he will be returning to the farm for a sixth season.

Sinclair was second on the team in tackles with 71 total tackles, and also recorded a sack. The Cardinal will certainly benefit from his experience, and while this was his fifth year, it was his first where he was a full-time starter, so Stanford fans should expect a massive leap from him.