WATCH: Cal players wrap up training camp
Cal training camp is wrapping up this week as the Bears soon will begin the full transition into game mode. Justin Wilcox‘s team opens the season Aug. 30 on the road against Oregon State. Over the last three weeks the team has been able to make progress, and now it is time for rubber to meet the road.
The Bears will be looking to get back on the right side of .500 this season after finishing the regular season 6-6 in 2024. The team named a new starting quarterback this week, which has helped energize the fan base. However, there will be a number of components that will have to be in place for the Bears to get back to a winning record.
Cal added over 30 newcomers this summer, but a few familiar faces will play key roles this fall.
A few of those players spoke with reporters Thursday as the end of training camp approaches.
Ryan McCulloch training camp media session (Aug. 21)
Outside linebacker Ryan McCulloch has battled injury at times so far in his career, but he is poised for a breakout season. He is going to be a focal point of the defense this fall and could set himself up for a future in the NFL with a strong showing.
There has been plenty of buzz about the junior edge rusher, and he’s eager to hit the field against Oregon State next Saturday.
“I’m just gonna keep putting down my head and working,” he said. “That’s all I’ve done since I’ve played football and since I’ve been here. So that’s the plan.”
Aidan Keanaaina training camp media session (Aug. 21)
Notre Dame transfer Aidan Keanaaina is headed into his second season with the Bears, and he is as important as ever. The veteran defensive lineman emerged as a top option on the interior last season. This year, he won’t surprise anyone and is going to be a vital part of any success the Bears have on that side of the ball.
Keanaaina likes the depth the Bears have developed along the defensive front. He believes it will lead to a steady rotation on the interior of the defensive line. The growth of that group has him excited about the potential this fall.
“We have very high standards for this D-line,” he said Thursday. “We just want to keep pushing that envelope, and make this defense what we believe it can be.”
Trond Grizzell training camp media session (Aug. 21)
Trond Grizzell has suddenly become the veteran of the receiver group. He’s one only a couple players who has spent at least four years at Cal. He returns for his final season as the top returning player at his position. Grizzell has moved from outside to inside and back out again throughout his career.
He sounds to have solidified his spot outside this offseason and will be in position to be productive once again. In addition to what he’s doing on the field, Grizzell has become a leader within the room and he spoke about all of that Thursday.
“It’s weird being the only fifth-year guy here left,” he said. “… A lot of new guys, and a very different receiver room. It’s different so just gotta work in it. But, it’s kind of cool being the older guy in the room.”
