"One reason I started last season as a sophomore was because David taught me so much playing along side me. He showed me how to play hard and how to be a leader. And when Paul watches me play he always lets me know when I make mistakes and tells me how I can correct them and get better," Joe Kruger said.

Actually, Kruger might be as talented as a tight end as he is a defensive player. In summer passing camps, he was always one of the tougher receivers to defend. And college coaches have taken notice of his multi-dimensional skills.

"I feel like I'm a better defensive player right now, but I think I can play offense as well," Kruger said.

Over the next two seasons, this Kruger story will play itself out. But Timpanogos fans are encouraged to know there's a fourth Kruger boy waiting in the wings. Mark Kruger, 13, is projected to be just as big and athletic as his three older brothers.

"I'm sure he'll be a football player as well," Joe Kruger said.

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E-mail: jimr@desnews.com