Esera moves
to offense
Tala Esera is moving from the Hawaii football team's defensive line to its offensive line.
The 6-foot-4, 280-pound second-year freshman from Kahuku will be on the depth chart at right tackle when fall camp starts in early August. Offensive line coach Mike Cavanaugh said Esera will probably eventually move to guard or center.
Esera said he decided to switch after spring practice and much prodding from Cavanaugh.
"Coach Cav always bothered me about it, from last year," Esera said. "I was convinced by his enthusiasm and other people kept telling me I have the potential."
Cavanaugh said he thinks Esera has all the tools to become a successful blocker.
"After meeting with (head coach) June (Jones), we came to the conclusion he's got a chance to be a good defensive lineman, but he could really help us on the offensive line," Cavanaugh said. "Right now he's a work in progress, but I'm excited. He fits the offensive lineman mold. He's real smart and athletic and he's a tough guy. I think he has a great future as an offensive lineman."
His immediate future at defensive tackle would probably be on the bench. The Warriors return three potential all-league players in Isaac Sopoaga, Lance Samuseva and Lui Fuga. Abu Ma'afala is also ahead of Esera, and one or two junior college transfers are expected to be eligible in the fall.
"We've got so much depth at defensive tackle, I would hate to see him sit," defensive line coach Vantz Singletary said. "It will be a plus for our entire team to see him go over there and compete for that position. I think that's his home."
Esera progressed well in practice as a true freshman on the d-line last year, and was one injury away from playing most of the season.
Wayne Hunter started out as a defensive lineman at UH in 2001 after his transfer from Cal. Last year he moved to left tackle on the offensive line, and was drafted in the third round by the Seattle Seahawks last month.
"Wayne told me the change was easy for him and he kind of gave me encouragement to do it," Esera said.
UH's offensive line loses three starters from last year: Hunter, right guard Vince Manuwai and center Lui Fuata.
The starters going into camp from left to right are Samson Satele, Shayne Kajioka, Derek Faavi, Uriah Moenoa and Dane Uperesa. The second five isn't completely set yet, but includes Brandon Eaton, Chad Kahale, Phil Kauffman and Ryan Santos. Santos, normally a right tackle, might move to right guard to give Esera more reps at right tackle, Cavanaugh said.
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