Aug. 9, 2008
Saturday Practice Notes
ALL-ACCESS: Interview With Graduate Assistant Nick Speegle
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Former Lobo linebacker Nick Speegle has returned to the University of New Mexico football team and this time as a graduate assistant coach. Speegle, who played under head coach Rocky Long from 2001-04, joined the staff after spending two seasons in the NFL. Speegle said he has embraced his new role and is excited about the new season.
“I’m excited to be back in my hometown of Albuquerque and being around Lobo football again,” said Speegle. “We have a lot of work to do still but I feel the linebackers should be tough this season.”
The Duke City native was one of two Lobos drafted in 2005 after the Cleveland Browns took him in the sixth round. Speegle spent two seasons in the league and saw action in 14 games during the 2005 season.
“I learned a lot in the NFL and grew up,” said Speegle. “I was able to be around a lot of great players and linebackers during my time. I was able to see a different side of football and there really is nothing better than playing in the NFL. I hope to bring that knowledge from here at UNM as a player and in the NFL and pass it along to the kids.”
Speegle was an all-Mountain West Conference selection for the Lobos in 2004 and ranks 14th in career tackles with 317. UNM was the only school to offer him a football scholarship but his determination and hard-hitting style of play made him one of the best linebackers in the country as a senior.
This season, Speegle has been working closely with the linebackers and assisting new linebackers coach Tony White.
“I think we could be pretty good at the linebacker position this fall,” said Speegle. “Zach Arnett is a great leader and athlete. Herbert Felder will be great because he is big and physical. The new guys have a lot of potential and I see them stepping up in years to come.”
Football has been Speegle’s life and with a new career building in the college coaching ranks, New Mexico may be the perfect opportunity for him to reach his goals.
“I would like to become a position coach and hopefully a linebackers coach someday,” said Speegle. “If that means I have to leave, then that’s fine, but eventually I want to get back here to UNM.”
Click here to listen to the complete interview with Speegle for free on the All-Access platform.
The Lobos have completed over a week of practice as they continue to prepare for the 2008 season opener against TCU on Aug. 30 at University Stadium.