This spring has been great for the DBs so far because so many of our young guys are getting opportunities to play and improve at every practice. I’m starting to notice players and develop confidence in them because of their ability to make plays in practice. You never want guys to get hurt, but it’s good to know that we’re developing quality depth.

I’ve loved spring practice this year because of the intensity and the pace we’ve set. Because of the tempo and speed of practice, we’re getting over 100 plays against our offense every practice. That’s like playing a game and gives us so many opportunities to evaluate guys and make better decisions going into the fall.

Walter Thurmond is clearly having a tremendous spring. He probably has 5 or 6 picks, is knocking down balls at every practice and is playing with a supreme confidence. He and TJ, our two senior, veteran leaders are bringing an attitude and enthusiasm to practice every day that I love to see.

I’m still riding the joy and momentum from last season. We were able to win 10 games, finish ranked in the top 10, and it really was a great accomplishment. I also love seeing who is going to emerge at every position on the team. Seeing Bryson Littlejohn, Jamere Holland, and the way are D-Line has improved as a group in such a short period of time is really exciting.

This spring, I also became a grandfather! The defensive staff was visiting TCU, and I was able to catch a quick flight over to Atlanta and made it just in time for my granddaughter Elise’s birth. Those moments in your life, getting married, having children, and then seeing them have children are the special parts about being a human being. Holding her was really a humbling experience and made me redefine what’s important in my life.

I would love to see more people at practice, so get out here!

Go Ducks!
John Neal