Purdue defensive line coach Kelvin Green likes what he’s seeing from his room as fall camp rolls on, and after Wednesday’s practice he made it clear the group’s chemistry has stood out just as much as the talent.
“It’s a great group and I truly enjoy coaching each guy in the room. The camaraderie they have with one another is amazing.” Green said.
Even with a new defensive coordinator in Kevin Kane, Green said the basics of the job haven’t changed much. For his unit, it still comes down to keeping pad level low and attacking every day.
Green also had praise for transfer Curt Neal, calling him an “old veteran.” Neal has already played in the Big Ten, and Green said he understands what it takes day in and day out to perform at this level. He described Neal as a leader who does things the right way and brings a positive presence to the room.
Another player Green highlighted was Ian Jeffries, who he said has taken a noticeable step forward after having a full offseason, spring ball, summer work and now fall camp in the program. Green said Jeffries has gotten bigger and stronger and is moving better.
Purdue’s portal additions, Wisdom Simms and Rodney Lora, have also caught his attention. Green pointed to “the size, the mass and still being able to attack and play violent.” He added that both players have shown a willingness to learn.
TJ Lindsey, meanwhile, is expected to be a vital part of the defensive line this season, according to Green.
As for how Purdue will sort out playing time up front, Green said there isn’t a fixed number of linemen he expects to use. The plan is to mix and match.
He also offered a strong assessment of true freshman Kobe Cherry: “He’s big, he’s hard to move and he enjoys playing the game and he’s so coachable. He wants to be great.”
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