Latest on Van Sweden

Outside linebacker Dan Van Sweden broke his right leg in Saturday’s scrimmage in LaVell Edwards Stadium.

Here’s the latest update on his condition:

Van Sweden will have surgery on that right leg on Monday and is expected to be out of action for 10 to 12 weeks.

“I think the young guys got a lot of playing time today,” said outside linebacker Vic So’oto. “We really don’t need to have Harvey Unga, Dennis Pitta, or David Nixon out there right now and I think the right guys got the reps today.

“We’re taking steps in the right direction. Our goal is to become a Top 10 defense and I think we’re headed in the right direction.”

Two of those younger players who saw a lot of action were freshmen linebackers Iona Pritchard and Spencer Hadley. While both have a lot to learn, coaches are impressed with their progress after two weeks in the system.

So’oto said he’s progressing but he’s got a lot to learn as Nixon continues to help him learn his position. So’oto said his biggest challenge in weeks to come is to better fight off blocks. “I need to put my body in a better position instead of trying to overpower bockers. I can’t afford to get tied up and I’ve got to get free, that is what I think I can improve upon the most before the first game.”