Injuries continue to be a concern for Air Force football coach Fisher DeBerry as the Falcons enter the last two weeks of practice before their Sept. 3 opening game in Seattle against the Washington Huskies.
“We’re on schedule, but I’m worried that some of our players that we hoped to have scrimmaging are still in the tub,” DeBerry said. “You can’t become as good a player as you’re capable of being if you can’t practice. When you’re not practicing, it’s tough to earn a position.”
DeBerry expects wide receiver Jason Brown, defensive end Gilberto Perez and linebacker Joey Keller back at practice this week, but there remains concern for cornerback Carson Bird, nose guard Russ Mitscherling and guard Caleb Morris.
All but Morris are projected starters.
Several players are taking advantage of the chance to move up on the AFA depth chart.
Sophomore linebacker Drew Fowler has gained attention in Keller’s absence, and junior Brad Meissen and sophomores Garrett Rybak and Nathan Smith have played well at cornerback in Bird’s absence.
DeBerry said after Saturday’s practice he had not made any personnel decisions. But he said from today on practices will focus on preparing for the opener.
Irv Moss can be reached at 303-820-1296 or imoss@denverpost.com.
