The 'Len' Zone
Notre Dame Spring Practice: Quarterback Growth and Team Progress
Head coach Marcus Freeman praised the team's spring practice progress. The session featured over 60 live plays, up from last week's 40-play scrimmage.
"We're getting better. That's the ultimate goal," Freeman said.

by Len Clark

Marcus Freeman Press Conference Highlights
Practice #9 Highlights
Quarterback Development Shows Promise
CJ Carr
"He's much improved," Freeman said of the freshman quarterback.
Carr has shown steady growth throughout camp sessions.
Steve Angeli
The veteran has continued his development as a leader in the QB room.
Coaches noted his improved decision-making in live situations.
Kenny Minchey
Minchey has demonstrated better command of the offense this spring.
His progress rounds out a competitive quarterback unit.
Offensive Standout - Tight End Eli Raridon
Offensive Standout - Wide Receiver Elijah Burress
Defensive Scheme Adjustments
Previous Approach
Heavy reliance on man coverage schemes
Transitional Period
Mike Mickens embracing defensive changes
Enhanced Zone Coverage
Influenced by defensive coordinator Chris Ash's defensive philosophy
Improved Flexibility
"We've got to continue to enhance the way we play zone." - Marcus Freeman
Injury Updates Impact Spring Development
Guerby Lambert
Freshman offensive lineman underwent shoulder surgery. Expected to return in fall.
Micah Gilbert
Freshman wide receiver recovering from earlier procedure. Timeline for return unclear.
Jeremiyah Love
Junior running back sustained hamstring injury. Freeman indicated it appears minor.
Defensive Line Standouts Emerge
Jason Onye
Coach Freeman specifically praised Onye's development and strength gains this spring.
Donovan Hinish
Hinish has shown improved technique and consistency in defeating blocks.
Gabriel Rubio
Rubio's growth on the line has been notable throughout spring sessions.
Leadership Emerging "By Committee"

Drayk Bowen
Junior linebacker praised for vocal leadership since freshman year.
"My expectations for Drayk are high, but his expectations of himself are probably even higher."

Adon Shuler
Safety stepping into leadership role in the secondary.
Helping teammates with alignments and assignments.

Jaylen Sneed
"This is probably the best spring we've seen from Jaylen Sneed."
Freeman noted his improvement in fundamentals and weight gain.

Team Approach
Freeman emphasized leadership is currently developing across multiple position groups.
Freshman Standouts Making Early Impact

Tae Johnson
Versatile safety taking reps at multiple positions
Elijah Burress
Impressive route running and work ethic
Impact Freshmen
Early enrollees getting valuable spring experience
Coach Freeman highlighted freshman safety Tae Johnson for his intelligence and versatility. Johnson has taken reps at safety, corner, and potentially nickel.
Freshman wideout Elijah Burress has stood out for his exceptional route running and consistent work ethic during spring practice.
Spring Game Format and Roster Considerations
Offense vs. Defense Format
Spring game will feature traditional offense-versus-defense format rather than a team draft.
Decision driven by current roster depth concerns.
Potential Roster Limit
Freeman acknowledged uncertainty around proposed 105-player limit.
"We have a plan. It's going to be difficult."
Final Preparation
Spring game represents culmination of development period.
Coaches will evaluate performances for summer depth chart decisions.
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