Injured Al-Shaair playing coach

BOCA RATON — With his participation limited during spring practices, Florida Atlantic linebacker Azeez AlShaair has used the down time to become an extra coach on the field.

Al-Shaair hasn’t let offseason shoulder surgery affect his ability to contribute. He’s made the most of his time as an observer.

“You’re just out there kind of like another coach,” Al-Shaair said. “It’s kind of funny. You’re literally sitting there a whole practice, pads on but I’m coaching guys up. It’s good to help the other guys out.”

A senior, Al-Shaair has led the Owls in tackles for three consecutive seasons. He flirted with entering the NFL draft last year but decided it would be best to return.

He is nearly four months removed from Tommy John surgery. Al-Shaair has made up for the lack of reps by studying the new playbook under firstyear defensive coordinator Tony Pecoraro. The two have already developed a strong relationship the past couple of months.

The offseason also provided a lifechanging moment for Al-Shaair. He proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Yahaira Negron. The two have dated since Al-Shaair was a struggling high school student. He was homeless for nearly two years after a fire destroyed his family’s home in 2012.

“It’s something I’ve been wanting for a long time since I was in high school,” Al-Shaair said. “She’s been there for me, helped me. Even the times when I was homeless in Tampa, she would give us food and things like that.”

Singletary limited

Running back Devin “Motor” Singletary was limited in Tuesday’s practice because of an undisclosed injury. Owls coach Lane Kiffin said the injury is not serious and he is expected to participate the remainder of the spring.

Wright no longer a secret

Sophomore Willie Wright had the element of surprise last season.

After leading the team with 56 catches for 657 yards and six touchdowns, he no longer has that luxury. With defenses expected to key on him more this season, Wright said he’s ready for the added attention.

Two tight ends?

Kiffin has started utilizing tight ends Harrison Bryant and John

Raine simultaneously in an attempt to show defenses different looks.

Bryant received most of the reps last season until he sustained a foot injury against Florida International. “Raine caught just six passes for 50 yards last season, but his improved speed has made Kiffin want to play him more.