Ryan Walters 'liked the energy, liked the communication' of first training camp practice
One training camp practice down, 18 to go for Ryan Walters in his first go-around as Purdue head coach.
“Liked the energy, liked the communication,” said Walters, who is folding in 19 transfers. “A lot of really good recall from the springtime. A lot of new faces, so it’s good to see everybody out there.”
Walters put his team through a brisk two-hour practice on Wednesday with temperatures in the 80s. Players were in shorts, jerseys and helmets, working on myriad things.
“Worked on everything, first down, second down, third down,” said Walters. “Like I said, we got a lot of good work in the spring. They did a good job this summer of getting together and having some player-run practices. So, we were able to just dive right into playing football.”
Some key players didn’t fully take part today, including likely starters in center Gus Hartwig, tight end Garrett Miller and outside linebacker Khordae Sydnor. Hartwig and Miller are coming off knee injuries. Walters isn’t alarmed about any of the missing players, which also included offensive tackle Daniel Johnson, defensive end Prince Boyd and defensive backs Ethon Cole and Salim Turner-Muhammad.
“No long-term concerns,” said Walters. “They’re just right where they should be in the rehab process. Our training room and strength and conditioning have done a good job getting on the same page.
“Those guys are taking ownership over getting their bodies ready, and so I’m happy with where they’re at. When they’re ready to go play football and can protect themselves, they’ll be out there.”
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Does this team have a personality yet?
“Definitely,” said Walters. “They did a great job this summer. I know I keep saying that. They’re always around each other. And they’re always pushing each other, holding each other accountable. It feels like they want the same things. …”
What’s Walters looking for from his squad?
“Just the competition and embracing the challenges,” he said. “That’s the one unknown right now is just how we will handle adversity when it hits us. We got some veteran guys, we got some experienced guys, but we don’t have veteran experience together. So, it’s just trying to put them in situations where they can get that chemistry going and react to adversity the proper way.”
One guy who continues to look good is quarterback Hudson Card.
“Was really pleased with some of the throws he had today,” said Walters. “He’s got poise. He’s good with communication and you can tell he’s more comfortable just with his surroundings.”
Purdue will practice again on Thursday morning.
