The pads were popping and trash talk was at high volume. That’s usually the result of the first non-walkthrough practice of any given training camp. As Wally Buono and his staff maintain tinkering with the format will be beneficial ahead of next Tuesday’s pre-season opener in Calgary, the players were happy to get back to doing what they do: hit people.
For veterans like Manny Arceneaux, it is extra satisfying to start some real practice.
“It was good to get back out here, “ said the eighth year slotback.
“The first two days were a lot of standing in the heat so to come and compete is good. Getting in football shape is the most important part.”
Arceneaux looked good for plenty of reasons, not the least of which was the play of the man throwing to him. Jonathon Jennings was sharp and even completed every pass he threw in the second team drill session of the day. It’s that chemistry from the get-go that has Arceneaux and his crew of receivers excited for what lies ahead.
“Oh my gosh, all the quarterbacks are playing really well,” stated Arceneaux.
“It’s good to see them out here talking to the receivers and taking charge. It was good to see Jon out here not getting flustered and if there is an incompletion, it’s all about the next play. It starts with the mental toughness aspect.”
One of those dynamic receivers is still not taking part in full drills. Chris Williams spent another day on the sidelines and will not be rushed back into action as he continues to test out that repaired knee. Rookie Maurice Morgan took a bulk of the first-team reps at that ‘X’ wide receiver position.
In the afternoon session, Travis Lulay was in tip-top form while completing a pair of long bomb touchdown passes to newcomer Tyler Davis.
Other Standouts
Buono saluted his entire offensive line in morning breakdown. For those scoring at home, Hunter Steward took most of the reps. at Jovan Olafioye’s old left tackle spot and was backed up by David Foucault. Charles Vaillancourt started in Steward’s 2016 left guard position. Marco Iannuzzi made a good diving grab in one on one drills and proved to have good hands in the hurry up team sessions Danny Vandervoort was a candidate for catch of the day when he hauled in a diving touchdown grab in double coverage.
Solomon Elimimian was a shining star on defence as he tipped an interception to himself early in the morning team drills. It was his read on the play that made it most impressive. Newcomer Matt Bucknor was impressive with nice pass breakups in both one on one and team drills. TJ Lee stole the show in the afternoon with interceptions in both team and one on ones. There look to be no signs of slowing down after his rehab from a ruptured Achilles tendon suffered last season.
Injury Report
Along with Williams, fellow receiver Shaq Johnson continues to be bothered by a hamstring he tweaked on day one of mini-camp last week. The London Jrs. product says to be “getting closer.” Defensive tackle Bryant Turner Jr. was dealing with a quad issue and sat out a few drills but was still able to perform. Frank Alexander took some breaks in the afternoon as he continues to heal from a foot injury. It doesn’t look to be serious.
Quotable
“It’s definitely fun. We talk trash to each other because we want to keep that competition going. When you’re quiet, no one is really going to challenge you. When it’s thrown out there, you have to live up to it. I haven’t hit anybody since August so knocking that rust off his pretty good.”- Defensive back Steven Clarke on the fun back and forth with offensive players during one on ones.
Wednesday Schedule
Non-padded practice from 8:30-10: 30 am with pads coming back for the 3:30-5: 30 pm later session.
Matt Baker: mbaker@bclions.com