Top 5 most improved players this spring
Memphis coach Mike Norvell evaluated the spring football game like a proud parent, pleased with how his team has come along in a month.
"I've seen growth on both sides of the ball," Norvell said, "I really like what I'm seeing in the trenches with both offensive and defensive line. I think we know some of the skill position guys that should be a strength for next year."
He had much reason to smile — there's depth at multiple positions. Even with the quarterback battle still up for grabs, Norvell said he was never worried about lacking quality under center.
The Tigers looked stronger, thanks to off-season work by strength and conditioning coach Josh Storms. Storms noted in March that multiple players set personal bests in the weight room and they've peaked well ahead of schedule from last year.
With over 10,000 fans at the spring game last week, there's reason to be excited about the fall and the Tigers said they know they have to build on that this summer.
"Nobody's going to work harder than us and it'll be just like if the game is tomorrow," sophomore linebacker JJ Russell said. "We're gonna grind it out until we ain't got no more."
Here are five players that showed the most improvement this spring:
Dylan Parham, OL
The redshirt freshman not only had to switch positions from the defensive line, he had to mesh with an experienced group up front. Parham did just that and found his way playing with the first unit most of the spring.
He was praised by the coaches and senior lineman Drew Kyser for picking up the offense well and being coachable.
Keith Brown/Bruce Huff, LB
Let's cheat and mention both Brown and Huff in one space. With an experienced group led by Tim Hart and Curtis Akins, Brown and Huff brought a nasty pass-rushing element that looks to can help fill the void left by Genard Avery.
Huff shined in the scrimmages with his ability to get to the quarterback, including a three-sack effort in the second scrimmage. Brown, who transferred this winter from Northwest Mississippi Community College, impressed coaches not just with his pass-rushing, but his IQ and quick grasp of the defense.
Along with JJ Russell, who had a great spring and shined in the scrimmages, Brown and Huff added depth to a position group that could be even
La'Andre Thomas, S
Norvell has consistently mentioned Thomas among the players that took the biggest leap this spring, and even his teammates marveled at how the sophomore has looked at free safety.
"He had the most improvement switching from corner to safety," defensive back Tito Windham said. "He really stepped up and I think he'll do a job with the role."
Thomas has been a natural leader since he was a high school quarterback, and he showed that being a communicator for the last line of defense along with great ball instincts. He added more depth to an already experienced secondary that should be an instant force when the season starts.
Sanchez Blake, DB
We could've filled this spot with several candidates. Freshman Tim Taylor showed growth at running back despite a crowded backfield. Sophomore Damonte Coxie made a leap at wide receiver.
Freshman Tyce Daniel looked good at tight end. So why Blake? Let's allow defensive coordinator Chris Ball to explain why he's high on the freshman.
"If I had to give out an award for most improved player, it'd be him," Ball said.
"I thought going into this spring he'd be a special teams guy only, but he's competing for a starting job."
Given how deep the secondary is with TJ Carter, Windham, Tyrez Lindsey, Josh Perry, Blake's growth adds another layer to how good this group can be going forward.