Jeremiah Wright, an offensive lineman for Auburn, has found the spring to be difficult in previous years.
Wright has been forced to recover from injuries for the last three spring football seasons, rather than looking forward to workouts and Auburn’s A-Day game.
Wright tore his ACL during his first Auburn spring camp in 2021. After becoming hurt during one of the team’s scrimmages prior to the spring game, Wright missed A-Day the following spring.
Wright was sidelined last spring by a minor ailment that bothered him throughout spring.”I’ve never played spring ball before,” Wright stated in a March 12 interview.
“I’ve had injuries the entire time I’ve been here. This is the first time for me. Simply put, really thrilled.
With Kam Stutts, Gunner Britton, and Avery Jones graduating and Auburn needing to replace three starting offensive lineman from the 2023 season, Wright’s healthy spring could not come at a better moment.
Having said that, Wright is in the best possible position to be a starter because of his health and the openings on the attacking side.
Wright has often replaced Stutts at right guard throughout spring training. The two alternated in and out of the position during games last autumn.
Wright is aware that the possibility of starting for the SEC on a full-time basis is there, but he also understands that in order to take advantage of it, he must learn to control when to use his aggression and energy.
Like flipping a switch. It’s imperative that you understand when to switch it on and off.
Regarding my aggression and intensity, I know that every time I step outside, my switch is constantly on,” Wright remarked. “I’m prepared to assault and pursue someone.
But I must be aware of my circumstances. I must get to know my rival. I must be aware of the down-and-distance.
That’s everything. It’s moving toward realizing who I’m up against.
Luckily for Wright, he’s under Auburn offensive line coach Jake Thornton’s tutelage as he begins his second season, which should aid in his progress.
“This is my second year really learning under Coach (Jake) Thornton,” Wright remarked. Right now, my attention is on the technique.
I’m set to go once I’ve mastered it.
Wright adds that Thornton is becoming more aware of when to intervene and tighten the leash on him as their connection as player and coach grows.
“He pursues me, particularly when I’m high and eager to depart. I occasionally stray from my foundations.
They fly out the window,” acknowledges Wright. “He’ll yank me back in and tell me to control myself.
He’ll yank me aside and tell me to “calm down now.”
Thornton is nevertheless happy with Wright’s progress.
“He’s performing really well. Wright has a large, tangible presence, according to Thornton. “His physique has truly changed.
He’s thrilled about him and carries a lot of excellent weight at the moment.
Finally, after years of unfavorable circumstances, Wright’s stars are beginning to align.
Now, it all comes down to striking and keeping the right balance between being in control and playing with the throttle wide open.
“At this moment, my primary focus is maintaining self-control and avoiding excessive aggression,” Wright stated.
“I’m prepared to go out there and attack, so I’m aware of all of these feelings right now.”
