​Senior Eli Waterdown hasn’t been cleared for practice yet, but he is still having an impact for Sequoyah football.While his teammates were hitting tackling dummies, running drills and simulating games, the senior defensive back has been on the sidelines. A spring shoulder surgery has kept him there for spring training, summer camps and now the first three days of fall practices. However, he is still having an impact, watching, listening and helping his team.“I’m just out there looking for my keys and the guys I’m reading and specific routes,” Waterdown said. “I just wanted to make sure I had clean eyes. It helps me with technique. It helps me get right back into the motions and get back into the game.”During seven-on-seven passing drills, Waterdown stood behind the defensive backs, calling out plays, routes and coverages and encouraging his teammates. Some in his shoes might miss practice, but Waterdown viewed it as a chance to not only keep getting better, but to help his team.“It’s just about being there for the team, even though I can’t be [on the field yet],” Waterdown said. “So I just wanted to work on what the coaches are talking about being a leader. You don’t always have to show up by being the last one out there; you can show up with your actions, and I want to do that.”He returns this season as one of 18 returning starters for the Indians, head coach Chad Hendrix said.“Last season, Waterdown recorded four interceptions, three tackles for loss and 56 total tackles,” Hendrix said. “He’s one of those guys who communicates on all sides of the ball. When we communicate with one another, it’s so beneficial.”Waterdown is set for a follow-up appointment on his shoulder Thursday, Aug. 7 and is hoping to be cleared for physical activities.The Indians open the season with the Sequoyah preview at home, Friday, Aug. 21