Purdue soccer is wanting ahead to the potential return of senior exterior linebacker Kydran Jenkins for his or her recreation towards Wisconsin on Friday night time. Jenkins missed the second half of final week’s loss to Syracuse attributable to harm. Coach Ryan Walters offered an replace, saying that Jenkins remains to be going via the rehab course of and his availability for the sport will rely upon his readiness. If Jenkins is unable to play, the subsequent participant in line based on the depth chart is both Will Heldt or Scotty Humpich, each of whom have had expertise filling in for Jenkins throughout spring practices.
Jenkins has been a key contributor to the group’s protection this season, with 13 tackles, 4 for loss, three sacks, and 4 quarterback hurries. He has been a three-year starter for Purdue and has collected 12 profession sacks. Walters acknowledged the affect of Jenkins’ absence within the second half of the Syracuse recreation, stating that he’s an important participant and his presence was missed.
Heldt, a real freshman, has proven promise throughout spring practices after enrolling at Purdue early. He has recorded one solo deal with and one assisted deal with in video games towards Fresno State and Syracuse. Humpich, a sixth-year senior who transferred from Murray State, performed in 13 video games final season for Purdue and recorded 16 tackles, together with a sack towards Penn State. He sacked Syracuse’s quarterback in the latest recreation for his solely deal with of the season.
Walters acknowledged that whereas Heldt and Humpich have proven potential, there are nonetheless areas for enchancment. He talked about the significance of them enjoying throughout the defensive framework and executing their assignments successfully. From a schematic standpoint, Walters additionally emphasised the necessity to make the most of their abilities in a method that aligns with their capabilities. General, he believes that each gamers are extremely able to contributing to the group’s success.
In conclusion, Purdue soccer is longing for the return of Kydran Jenkins for his or her recreation towards Wisconsin, however will probably be ready with alternate options if he’s unable to play. Will Heldt and Scotty Humpich have each proven potential as replacements and, with additional progress and growth, can successfully bolster the group’s protection.