Quote:Sorry, but you just can't simply assume that.  Every one is different.

 

It's right to not expect a lot from Dante this season.

 

I'd rather he take another year to become who we drafted him to be, rather than never being able to become that guy at all.

Absolutely correct.

 

Even if he weren't coming off of a torn ACL, the fact is he's still unproven, and every bit the rookie he was last year.

 

Even if we assume he's completely healthy, even if we think he has limitless potential, he still has to adjust to the pro game.  That adjustment may well be seamless and he will have an immediate and major impact for us.  But more likely, he has to learn what it takes to be a pro, to beat tackles, TEs and chipping backs.  He will have to learn blocking schemes.  He will have to learn stunts, etc., He will have to learn to practice and condition his body, eat, etc.  He will have to continue to grow into his body. 

 

More likely, he will have to do all of these things before he becomes the kind of player we hope.  More likely that will be gradual.

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