April 01--Considering Northwestern's last two seasons have been wrecked by injuries, among other things, it's normal to have concerns regarding NU's top two playmakers.
But coach Pat Fitzgerald said that even though tailback Justin Jackson and receiver Christian Jones underwent minor knee surgeries, there's no cause for alarm.
Both will be fine for fall camp?
"Absolutely," Fitzgerald replied. "Just an oil change."
Jones missed last season following ACL surgery, which required a follow-up procedure that will hold him out for the remainder of spring practice that concludes April 11. (NU's annual open practice is 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Saturday at Ryan Field. A free youth clinic will follow.)
Jackson, who rushed for 1,187 yards and 10 touchdowns, underwent a procedure said to be "minimally invasive."
Receiver Mike McHugh also is out, while safety Traveon Henry, center Ian Park, tackle Blake Hance and receiver Cole Johnson returned to the field Tuesday. Lincoln-Way East alumnus Tom Fuessel and defensive lineman Eric Joraskie retired. Fuessel had a non-football-related health issue.
Three's company? Although there was some thought that Clayton Thorson and Matt Alviti had edged ahead of veteran Zack Oliver in the quarterback battle, Fitzgerald said all three remain viable and a decision likely will not be made until fall camp.
"All three have done some good things," Fitzgerald said, "and all three have made enough mistakes not to separate themselves."
Peyton's place: Trevor Siemian thought about quitting football after tearing his left ACL on a quarterback sneak at Purdue in November. He ultimately decided to go through with rehab because, he said, "I don't want to regret not trying 5-10 years from now."
Siemian, training with former NFL quarterbacks Jay Fielder and Scott Brunner in New Jersey, is scheduled to visit the Broncos twice in the next week. He'll work out for the Bears on April 7 and take part in NU's Pro Day on April 9.
Denver would be a dream fit for Siemian considering the starter there is Peyton Manning and his current backups are both unproven -- Brock Osweiler and Zac Dysert.
"That would be an unbelievable opportunity, to learn from one of the best of all time," Siemian told the Tribune. "But I don't want to put the carriage ahead of the horse."
tgreenstein@tribpub.com
