Loeffler out with torn knee ligament

Offensive lineman Jordan Loeffler will miss the rest of spring training after tearing ligaments in his left knee.

Loeffler’s return will depend on whether he decides to have surgery next week. There are nine spring practices remaining, including the spring game on April 25.

“He’s certainly had his share of setbacks,” UH coach Norm Chow said.

Loeffler, who will be a fourth-year junior this season, injured his knee during Saturday’s practice.

“It happened in the one-on-ones,” Loeffler said. “Simple drill. Freak accident.”

Loeffler was hoping to break into the rotation on the offensive line.

“It was really frustrating,” Loeffler said. “I wanted to show I could play. I felt I was doing pretty good. I felt I was getting into the groove of things. And then this happens. It always seems to be the wrong time, too.”

During the 2012 training camp, Loeffler broke his hand.

“I have to work with this, I guess,” Loeffler said of his misfortune.

Winchester-Makainai ailing

There also is concern about Chauncy Winchester-Makainai’s health. He is considered one of the Warriors’ most versatile offensive linemen. He can play every position on the line.

Winchester-Makainai has not participated in contact drills this spring because of a back injury that dates to the 2012 season. He is scheduled to meet again with a back specialist. In the meantime, he is restricted to riding an exercise bicycle during practices.

“It’s been tough for him,” Chow said.

Pasoquen back at it

Exiting the 2012 spring training, Ryan Pasoquen was at the top of he depth chart at nickelback.

But he tore his ACL during  training camp, had surgery and missed the 2012 season.

Now Pasoquen is back — and battling for playing time in the defensive secondary. He has practiced mostly as a safety with the No. 2 defense.

Defensive coordinator Thom Kaumeyer said Pasoquen was “overloaded” with work in last week’s practices. Pasoquen tweaked his left ankle during Saturday’s workouts, but he ran without discomfort on Tuesday.

“He’s come back strong this week,” Kaumeyer said.

Marrell Jackson, John Hardy-Tuliau and Charles Clay have gotten most of the work at the two safety positions. Defensive secondary coach Daronte’ Jones has mixed and matched players, opening the way for Pasoquen and Josh Donovan to get extensive practice time.

Cofer on defense

Craig Cofer’s career has been on the edge.

He was a defensive end as a sophomore, a tight end in 2012 and now is a defensive end again.

“I like him,” Kaumeyer said of Cofer, who has been a pleasant surprise as a pass-rusher. “We had him as a D-lineman when we first got here. We switched him because we didn’t have any tight ends, and now he’s back on defense. He’s done a nice job. He’s using his hands well. He’s getting off the ball. We’re happy with his progression this spring.”

Coaches clinic Saturday

The Warriors host a clinic for high school coaches this Saturday.

The agenda will include seminars, discussion sessions and the Warriors’ two-hour practice, featuring a controlled scrimmage when the team will be in full pads for the first time this spring.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.

In accordance with NCAA rules, there is a $10 fee that covers breakfast and refreshments.

For details, call (808) 956-6508.