Spring football practice is underway in Annapolis, and there is a different vibe around the Mids this year. After last season’s success, with ten wins, the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy, and a dramatic bowl victory against Oklahoma, the Midshipmen enter spring practice with momentum and a clear sense of identity. Rather than entering spring looking for answers, the Mids hope to build on their accomplishments.

Head Coach Brian Newberry, starting his third year at the helm, acknowledged the shift in atmosphere.

“I don't think I've ever been as excited and optimistic about spring football as I am right now,” Newberry said. “We had a tremendous offseason, and this spring is an opportunity for our seniors to really step up and lead this football team.”

Unlike last spring, when a largely revamped offensive staff was just introducing its philosophy, this season the team benefits from continuity. Offensive coordinator Drew Cronic hopes that will help his players get off to a running start.

“There’s a comfort level now. We know our players better, they know us better, and that builds trust,” he said. "Last year, our players didn't really know what we were doing. It was brand new. But success breeds confidence, and they're chomping at the bit to get better.”

In his meeting with the media last week, Cronic described his offense as a blend of triple option, spread, and Wing-T. Regardless of whatever else it's called, there is no doubt that you could call it successful. Navy was one of the most potent teams in the country last year, scoring on the first play of a drive five times. They were in the top ten in plays of 40+ yards despite being 115th in total number of plays run. But as much as Cronic might want to build on that success right away, he warned against doing too much too soon this spring. As much returning talent as the Mids have, there are still younger players who need work on the basics.

“I'm notorious for wanting to pick up right where we left off,” Cronic admitted. “But realistically, every spring you're starting at ground zero again, especially with young guys. We have a lot of talent, but the fundamentals are still critical.”

On defense, coordinator P.J. Volker faces a similar challenge. With stalwarts like Colin Ramos, Kyle Jacob, and Justin Reed graduating, younger players will need to replace their production. Yet Volker sees this as an opportunity as much as he sees it as a problem to solve.

“This is an exciting time defensively,” he said. “We have a chance to replace some very good players, and there’s no shortage of guys ready to step up. I can't wait to see them get after it.”

Volker is looking forward to the competition from players looking to ascend the depth chart. He emphasized the importance of spring practices as a proving ground.

“Our defense is built on effort, attitude, and toughness. It's not just about athleticism. We're looking for guys we trust to dominate their jobs, and the spring is when you really find out who those guys are.”

But some players will have to learn more than just their individual jobs. While Navy has considerable talent returning, the players they've lost were responsible for seeing the big picture-- making calls and getting their teammates lined up correctly. A critical aspect of spring practice is identifying those who can quarterback the defense and communicate effectively on the field.

“We lost some defensive quarterbacks—guys who could set the defense, make calls, and communicate clearly,” Volker said. “This spring is critical to finding players who can fill that void. Communication at all three levels of our defense is something we're really emphasizing.”

Offensively, Navy faces a significant rebuild along the offensive line, which is a challenge Cronic doesn't sugarcoat.

“Offensive line is always tough. It takes time and patience,” he explained. "We lost three starters, and with Ben Purvis and Hoke Smith recovering from injury, it’s a huge opportunity for younger players. It might get a bit ugly at times, but that's how you grow.”

He specifically noted younger players like Cam Nichols, Greyson Crawford, and Jake Polito, who will face talented defenders like Landon Robinson every day in practice.

“Facing tough competition daily is going to make them grow quickly,” Cronic said. “It's exactly what these younger players need.”

Another key opportunity for growth is the continued development of the tight end position. Long an afterthought in Annapolis, Cronic wants to make it a centerpiece of the offense. Cody Howard was limited by injuries last year but showed tremendous potential when healthy. Now, players recruited for the position, like Jake Norris, Theo Elwell, and Will Miles, will also get their chance.

“The tight end has become essential for us,” Cronic said. “It opens up a lot of what we want to do offensively. Last year, injuries slowed us there, but we're excited about the guys stepping up now.”

Wide receiver is another intriguing spot, especially with Nathan Kent off the field while he honors his track and field commitments. Rising junior Luke Hutchinson draws particular attention from Cronic, who plans to hold him to a high standard.

“Luke's athletic and smart. This spring, he's got a huge opportunity to prove himself," Cronic explained. “We'd like to see more production from our wide receivers, and Luke is a guy we think can step up in a big way.”

Meanwhile, on defense, Volker is equally enthusiastic about several players primed for breakout performances. One of those is defensive lineman Griffen Willis.

“When we moved Griff to the three-technique position last season, our defense really started clicking,” Volker said. “He's got tremendous energy and leadership. He's exactly the type of player we want on this team.”

Volker is also the position coach for the inside linebackers, and he expects big things from players like Job Grant, MarcAnthony Parker, and Coleman Cauley. Volker saw strengths in each of them that make them ready to compete for starting roles.

“Job might be the best pure athlete at linebacker," Volker noted. “MarcAnthony Parker picks up the defense incredibly fast. He's big, physical, and violent. Coleman's instincts are off the charts. This is an exciting group.”

The secondary also faces significant turnover, but Volker highlighted several promising players.

“Ira [Oniha] played some big minutes last year, and we think he's ready to take the next step,” Volker said. “Seth English is returning healthy, and he's got rare size and speed. These are players who've worked hard and are ready to make an impact.”

After proving they can compete at a high level, the Midshipmen now face the challenge of sustaining that success. To Newberry, staying on top of the mountain is even harder than climbing it in the first place. This spring, he wants to ensure his team has the right mentality.

“We’re still hunters," he said. "Past success doesn't guarantee future results. We must prove ourselves again. Every practice, every rep matters.”

Cronic echoed that sentiment.

“Stay on the hunt. That's our mantra. We can’t rest. We have to push ourselves every single day.”

Newberry feels his team can accomplish even more than they did in 2024, but the foundation must be laid down over the next four weeks.

“We want Navy football to matter nationally. That doesn't happen overnight. It happens one rep, one drill, one practice at a time. And that's exactly what we're doing this spring.”