(02-13-2019, 09:30 AM)rpr52121 Wrote:

(02-13-2019, 05:57 AM)I am Yoda Wrote: I think we need a tough thumper in the middle.  We didn't have that last year.  Nobody, NOBODY, fears our linebackers.  It stretches credulity that the one position group that was our Achilles heel on defense is the one that we didn't upgrade the coach.

I agree, but I still think Myles Jack can be that guy. He just needs to perfect the mental part of the game to be in the right spots to make those plays. That mental part of the game, is what I think TD could bring.

If not, they should draft that type of LB. Given what most teams are looking for, they should be able to get a good thumping LB in the 3-5th rounds. Lot cheaper than anyone on FA market.

FWIW, Lageman doesn't view Jack as a liability at all.  He raves over his athleticism.

The traditional thumper inside is going the way of the dinosaur.  There is a much greater emphasis on speed, athleticism and coverage because it's a space and passing game now.

That said, as much as I like Telvin Smith, sometimes I wonder if there can be a better balance between size/physicality at the point of attack and athleticism.  I never want to see Derrick Henry abuse us again.

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(02-13-2019, 03:25 PM)Kane Wrote:

(02-13-2019, 03:10 PM)Cleatwood Wrote: I think people need to prepare themselves for just one new Olineman this season and that's at RG. I think the other 4 are back with a rookie at RG.

Parnell? They could cut him and slide Richardson in there and we'd have two new linemen without having to actually pick up another one.

But yeah RG should be a top 3 round draft pick, imo. When the line was healthy, he was definitely the weak link

I'd like to see Richardson play first before simply sliding him in.  From what little of him I saw last preseason, I wasn't overly impressed.

To me, Ford from Oklahoma would be a very solid pick, because he could play RT immediately if needed or slide inside at RG for a year if Parnell stays and Cann leaves.

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