Navy football began spring practice on Monday without one of its longest-tenured assistant coaches.
Offensive line coach Chris Culton is taking a leave of absence due to health reasons, Navy head coach Ken Niumatalolo confirmed. Culton, who has been with the program for 14 years, declined to specify the nature of the illness when contacted by The Capital on Monday afternoon.
However, Culton said the situation was similar to when he was diagnosed with cancer a few years ago and had to undergo treatments.
Asked if he hoped to return to coaching when August camp begins, Culton responded "Yes, if I can get this under control.