Football updates: Brian Urlacher makes comeback for Lobos' first practice in full gear
The University of New Mexico football team is currently in the midst of an exciting fall camp, with notable visitors and promising performances from several players.
Hall of Fame linebacker Brian Urlacher, a former star for the Chicago Bears, made an appearance this week, marking his first visit to the program in at least a couple of years. Urlacher was invited by head coach Jason Eck, who expressed his appreciation for the alumni's involvement in building tradition.
During his visit, Urlacher spoke to the team on Monday night and attended Tuesday's practice, the Lobos' first in full pads. One of the standout players during the practice was linebacker Jaxton Eck, who made plays in every team period. Defensive players Elijah Brody, Ky'Won McCray, and Okiki Olorunfunmi also caught the eye.
However, the team is not without its injuries. Wide receiver Kader Diop suffered an undisclosed injury and may miss time, potentially leaving UNM without both Diop and Keagan Johnson for a period. Wide receiver Evan Wysong remains sidelined with an injury, and cornerback Frankie Edwards III was spotted wearing a walking boot. Running back D.J. McKinney was a non-contact participant due to a shoulder injury, while defensive lineman Gabe Lopez did not practice.
In the quarterback competition between Layne and Laubstein, scrimmage days will be crucial in making a decision, according to head coach Jason Eck. He also made a safety by walling off running backs Scottre Humphrey and Damon Bankston when UNM's offense was backed up on the goal line.
Urlacher, during his visit, expressed his thoughts on defenses usually being ahead during the early stages of fall camp. He noted that they don't have as many complexities as offenses, such as timing and shifts.
Over the last two years, UNM's pass rush has shown promise during camp but struggled during the season. Eck, who wants all former Lobos, regardless of their NFL success, to feel connected to the program, is working to ensure that this year's camp translates into success on the field.
One bright spot in the team's performance during practice was the good disruption from the defense. In six practices, there has been a noticeable effort to contain the offense and force turnovers. Eck himself had a sack on quarterback James Laubstein in another team period, and contained Laubstein, forcing him to throw it away.
The one touchdown seen during practice, if not stopped by defensive lineman Jalen McIver, would have been nullified by a sack. Cornerback Abe Williams, named to Bruce Feldman's "Freaks List" of college football's strongest, fastest, and most athletic players, was a key player in the defense's efforts.
Urlacher, despite his busy schedule, hopes to attend some games this fall, but his son's schedule with Southern Cal may make it challenging. Nevertheless, the University of New Mexico football team is off to a promising start, with Urlacher's visit serving as a boost to morale and motivation.
Football analysis focused on the University of New Mexico team's fall camp has highlighted the impressive performances of several players, such as Jaxton Eck, Elijah Brody, Ky'Won McCray, and Okiki Olorunfunmi. Brian Urlacher, a renowned figure in American football, makes an appearance and talks about the defensive advantage in the early stages of camp, emphasizing the defense's simpler strategies compared to the offenses. Despite injuries to players like Kader Diop and Evan Wysong, the Lobos are making a strong showing, with promising pass rush potential and key plays made by defenders like Abe Williams. Urlacher, who is hopeful to attend games this fall, visits during a time when the team is building tradition and anticipating success on the field.
