There comes a point in the development of a young player when potential has to become something more tangible.
Aydin Breland may have reached that point during Oregon’s spring game.
The performance itself mattered, but what Breland carried away from it may have been more important. After two seasons spent developing within one of the deepest defensive fronts in the country, Breland left the spring believing he was ready to do more than flash his ability in a limited role.
“I’d say the biggest thing I learned about myself in the spring game is that I should be as confident in myself as I should be, if that makes sense,” Breland said. “I feel like my ability is definitely there. My ability to play is there. And that’s just the biggest thing I’d say, just a big confidence booster.”
That confidence could prove to be an important step in Breland’s progression.
The former five-star prospect arrived at Oregon with the length, athletic ability and pass-rushing potential to eventually become a disruptive presence along the defensive line. He appeared in 12 games last season, but his role was still limited to 61 defensive snaps as Oregon leaned upon a veteran front.
