Tate Johnson's return to practice 'a positive thing' for Auburn's 'athletic' offensive line
AUBURN — It appears to be a quick recovery for Auburn offensive lineman Tate Johnson.
Hugh Freeze said last week that it was unlikely that Johnson would return this spring, citing an elbow injury. But on Monday, Johnson was seen back with the first-team offensive line.
Offensive coordinator Philip Montgomery confirmed Johnson’s return to the team on Tuesday, saying having Johnson back was a “bolt in the arm” for the Tigers’ offense.
“He’s a guy that works extremely hard and takes pride about his work and how he approaches things,” Montgomery said. “I know he’s still limited right now, but having him back in the mix is a positive thing right now.”
Tate Johnson suffered the same dislocated elbow injury last season, but it’s unclear if it’s the same arm as previously injured. Johnson started at center for Auburn during the first three football games of last season before being injured on the opening series of the Missouri game. He missed the remainder of the season. At the start of spring, Johnson moved from center to offensive guard, where he’s performed well.
As for the Tigers’ offensive line, Montgomery dished out some rave reviews three weeks into spring ball.
“Offensive line has been a real positive surprise throughout the spring,” he said. “The guys we’ve been able to add to that room have made an impact. I think we’re more athletic than what we’ve been. They’re moving well.
“They understand what we’re doing up front. I love the way they are approaching practice every day. That’s been one of our strong suits throughout spring ball. We want to see them continue to raise the bar every day, continue to finish blocks and understanding what’s that going to generate later.”
The Tigers will practice every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the most part leading into the April 8 spring game inside Jordan-Hare Stadium. Here’s the schedule of practices: February 27, March 1, 3, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, April 3, 5, 7 and 8. Auburn took the week of March 5-11 off for spring break.
