MOSCOW, Idaho - Idaho senior offensive lineman Noah Johnson is excited to be back on the field helping the team and his unit improve after having to sit out last year's spring practices recovering from a shoulder injury.

"It feels great honestly," said Johnson. "Last spring having to sit out and watch. It just kind of hurt me a little bit. You know, being able to be out here with my guys and practice every day…I just love it."

Johnson started all 11 games in 2018, earning HERO Sports All-America Third Team and All-Big Sky First Team accolades. Johnson hit the weight room to improve his strength and conditioning during winter workouts. Building on his weight room maxes, Johnson has put on weight but maintained his speed in order to push around bigger defenders.

His growth is also apparent beyond the physical gains. Johnson is determined to take on a leadership role for the 2019 season.

"This year I am focused on having more of a vocal role, especially in the huddle," Johnson said. "When we go to the huddle I try to keep them up. You know, if we had a bad play I try to tell them, "next play, we have to focus on the next play." Or if we are feeling tired, "don't let the little man win. We have to wear them out." Stuff like that."

Johnson's efforts are not going unnoticed. Sophomore Logan Floyd was a first-team Freshman All-American last season and he sees his blocking mate taking the offensive line to the next level.

"One thing we were lacking last year was leadership," Floyd said. "There wasn't just one leader who was set throughout the whole season. We have it this year and we're rolling now. Noah Johnson is that guy. He can pick anyone up. He can lead by his voice or just by hitting. I feel like he's the one who is going to be stepping up and he has stepped up during spring ball."

The Vandals will be in action April 19, for the annual Silver & Gold Game at 6 p.m. in the Kibbie Dome.