CORVALLIS - Oregon State’s latest boost up front and in the secondary is starting to look a lot more real.
Jaheim Patterson and Van Wells, the fifth-year seniors who returned to the Beavers earlier this month after a Colorado federal district court injunction opened the door for athletes who began college in 2022 to claim a fifth year of eligibility, are now working in full pads. Both had been back on the field last week, but the restrictions are easing as they settle back in.
Patterson already made his presence felt in Wednesday’s practice. Cornerback Trey Glasper said he came away with an interception, and Glasper sounded happy to have him back in the mix.
“Ever since he’s been here he’s been having his head down working hard,” Glasper said. “It’s been great having him back.”
The pair has brought more than just experience. Oregon State has also seen the production show up in the numbers.
On Tuesday, Wells posted the highest GPS load among all offensive and defensive linemen, while Patterson was right behind him and third on the team overall. OSU uses GPS loads as a sports science measure of player work and intensity.
If the Tenth Circuit does not grant the NCAA stay in the Colorado case - and that ruling could come at any time - both players are expected to be back on the field for the Beavers this fall.
Defensive coordinator Mike MacIntyre said Patterson, who finished last season with 66 tackles, two interceptions and four pass breakups, is “definitely” going to play. The only question now is how quickly he gets fully game-ready.
“Every day he’s done a little more,” MacIntyre said. “I’ve been impressed with him in the meeting room. ...
He can correlate (new terminology to old terminology). That’s the way it used to be in the NFL when you bring a guy in.”
Wells has made an impression too, and not just on the coaches. During a Monday film session, the running backs watched him drive a defensive tackle backward and climb to the second level of the defense.
“Everybody in the running back room was like, ‘Yeah, we’re going to need that,’” AJ Newberry said.
On the line, Wells has been working with the second-team offense, and coach JaMarcus Shephard said he’ll also get chances with the starters. The exact shape of Oregon State’s first unit is still being sorted out.
When Wells lines up with the starters, offensive coordinator Mitch Dahlen said Louisville transfer Carter Guillaume has shifted to guard, while Nate Elu and Tyler Voltin are getting reps at right tackle.
“We’re still doing the musical chairs up front and trying to find that best five,” Dahlen said. “That’s where putting (Wells) in there with the amount of snaps he has as a starting center is phenomenal. You can’t find that experience.
“He’s been an awesome addition. He’s got some intensity to him, which is refreshing to see a guy that comes in, doesn’t blink and is ready to go hit some people.”
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