The UAB Blazers intensified their spring football practice by donning full pads for the first time, signaling a significant milestone under new head coach Alex Mortensen. The team's energy and effort were palpable, as players embraced a competitive environment while focusing on the execution of plays. Center Adam Lepkowski highlighted the importance of the physical practice for team cohesion, especially with many new faces. There is an ongoing commitment to maintaining the team's culture amidst the transition, with veteran players taking proactive steps to integrate newcomers. As evaluations continue and competition heats up, the Blazers are setting a demanding tone for the upcoming season.

By the Numbers
  • UAB features a roster with a significant influx of new players, aiming to preserve team culture during the transition.
  • 20 former Blazers are set to participate in the upcoming Pro Day in front of representatives from 13 NFL teams.
State of Play
  • The current practice phase emphasizes a mix of physicality and execution as the team evaluates player positions.
  • Coaches are continuing to experiment with formations and combinations to find optimal player pairings.
What's Next

The Blazers will hold their next practice session on Friday morning, following their annual Pro Day scheduled for Thursday, which could offer insights into player potentials for the NFL.

Bottom Line

The Blazers are laying the groundwork for a competitive season, with both physicality and team cohesion at the forefront as they adapt under new leadership. Maintaining focus on execution and culture will be crucial for their success moving forward.