Another Beav starter reportedly on the mend

SURE, WHY NOT. What's one more Beaver starter reportedly sidelined for the start of fall camp. The good news, at least, is that he's not expected to be out for long.

Still, it's one more front-line guy the Beavs will apparently have to do without at the start of fall camp on Aug. 8.

"OSU LB Cameron Collins had abdominal surgery Tuesday. Might not be quite ready for the start of camp Aug. 8 but should be ready for opener," reported the Portland Tribune's Kerry Eggers on Thursday.

Collins was arguably the best story of the offseason. "He was the driving force on defense this spring for the entire defense," said BF.C's maria Bruggere, who saw every one of the spring sessions.

In addition to Collins, WR James Rodgers (knee) and h-back Joe Halahuni (shoulder), two of the brightst stars on offense for OSU, are expected to potentially miss all of fall camp. Halahuni's target date this offseason has been Sept. 1. Rodgers this week said he's running at home in Texas but how soon he is cleared for action remains to be seen. WR Jordan Bishop (ankle) is another Beav who was on the mend this offseason.

OSU is expected to get some injured Beavs back for the start of camp on Aug. 8. Ryan Katz, Terron Ward and Jordan Jenkins were all expected to be ready to go at last report.

In looking at Collins, and in however long he happens to be out, there's a few ways to look at it. The optimistic view is that he's a senior and once he gets back to full strength, he should be able to quickly jump into the mix and pick up where he left off.

On the other hand, a defensive unit, just like the offense, needs to find their rhythm. And the longer a starter is out, the longer it takes to hit their proverbial stride.

OSU will undoubtedly be cautious with Collins and not rush him back. But for Beaver fans, it sure would be nice to see him out on the practice field sooner rather than later once fall camp gets underway.