Florida Atlantic University football conducted its first full-contact practice of the spring on March 24, as Head Coach Zach Kittley led the Owls through drills that included live tackling periods. The session marked a key point in preseason preparations, giving coaches their initial look at players in full pads and at game speed.
The spring practice is significant for both player development and team evaluation, allowing coaches to assess physicality and execution under more realistic conditions. It also coincided with Florida Atlantic’s annual pro day, where former Owls showcased their skills for NFL scouts.
Kittley said about the day’s activities: “We got to throw the shells on a little bit on Saturday, but [today] was the first day of full pads and incorporate just a small bit of tackling in some periods. We felt like we needed to get some live tackles, just a couple there. I think it excites everybody, especially after about three days of rest before we get back going, get some legs back and stuff like that. It’s always fun when you’re putting the pads on and you can be a little bit more physical. You just get so much more out of the practice when you get to do that. I thought it was a really good day. I’m excited with where we’re tracking after the first four [practices].”
Kittley also highlighted the family atmosphere at practices: “One thing about me that I’m a huge believer in is the family environment that we have here… There’s also a lot of family members that come to watch their brother or son… We have had a tremendous amount of support out here at practice and I think that’s just going to continue to grow.” He noted his excitement for Pro Day as well: “Pro Day is huge every year… Just seeing old faces and guys that I love to death and always will, I’m excited to see how those guys did I’m sure they had a great day.” Twelve former players participated in drills for professional scouts during Pro Day.
Tight Ends Coach Jajuan Dulaney discussed his position group’s competitive spirit: “The biggest thing with this group is I just love the competitive spirit that we have… They already kind of know the deal. They can make things work… It’s intrinsic motivation; I don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of time bringing it out of them.” Dulaney explained offseason efforts with Kittley focused on finding versatile tight ends who fit into an Air Raid offense scheme.
Redshirt senior tight end AJ Johnson described why he chose Florida Atlantic: “This type of offense, this Air Raid offense, they like to throw the ball… Just talking to Coach Dulaney throughout the recruiting process… I felt like I was a player that can step in and make something happen in that position.” Johnson added his family’s proximity played an important role: “That most definitely played a major role… Being able to go back home any time I want … Being able to just be back where I have been my whole life.” He reflected on returning home after playing college football elsewhere: “My whole college career I was in the northeast … so it was really a culture shock just to come back home and experience that again.”
Looking ahead, Florida Atlantic announced upcoming events including Ladies Night scheduled for April 23 at Schmidt Family Complex from 6-9 p.m., offering fans opportunities for engagement with staff and players.
