Utah Utes football: Position change excites Utes' A'asa

Change has been constant in the collegiate career of Utah junior guard Neli A'asa.

He was recruited by the Utes to play defensive tackle. But prior to spring drills at this time last year, A'asa was moved to guard. And then when fall camp rolled around, A'asa had his position changed to tight end, but not because he was going to enjoy the glory of being a pass-catcher. He was moved there to block.

Now, with spring practices under way, A'asa is back as a true offensive lineman and being penciled in as the team's starter at right guard. He's being counted on to shore up what will be a revamped right side of the offensive line. The Utes have to replace a four-year starter at guard in Robert Conley, as well as tackle Dustin Hensel.

"It's been kind of tough," A'asa said of changing positions so frequently. "But my philosophy is team first. Wherever the team needs me, I go."

Coach Kyle Whittingham is thankful A'asa can easily adapt to the change and shore up a spot that needed to be filled following the loss of Conley.

"He did a good job for us in his role last year as a blocking tight end, but he's more of a natural offensive lineman," Whittingham said. "He's more comfortable where he's at right now."

And in more ways than one.

A'asa said he's happy to move inside and try and block guys who are closer to his size rather than fast and blitzing linebackers coming off the edge.

"It makes it a little easier blocking someone who's a 280-pound or 290-pound defensive tackle than those 210-pound superfast linebackers," A'asa said.

A'asa said he's had to put on some weight — and who wouldn't be happy about that — after moving from tight end to right guard. He said he weighed 270 pounds after the Sugar Bowl ended. He's now up to 290 thanks to a diet largely consisting of rice, spam and eggs. He hopes to get up to 300 in time for fall camp.

"I'm excited to come out and compete for a spot, try and get my name out there and show the coaches I want to play and contribute," A'asa said. "I'll keep working hard every day and study, and do what I got to do."

A'asa is at the top of the depth chart at right guard. He'll be pushed to keep the job by senior Tyler Williams and redshirt freshman Derek Tuimauga. Sophomore Tony Bergstrom is currently the starter at right tackle, but he'll be challenged for the job by senior Viliamu Nau and Tuimauga.