Quote:Rookies make mental mistakes.  Rookies are still growing into their bodies, hit the proverbial rookie wall, and still struggle to learn the intricacies of the pro game.  However, those factors are not an absolute bar on them being catalysts in the right circumstances.  I think Ramsey and Jack-by most expert observers opinions-are perfect fits for this defensive scheme.  Thus far, both seem to have picked up the scheme pretty quickly according to Bradley.  Both have the physical traits to be great players in this league.  While the occasional bump is to be expected, I think the chances are good that the members of this year's Jaguars rookie class can contribute to improved performance on the defensive side of the ball. 

 

I share this sentiment, but also caution to temper expectations.

 

There will be far too much required from the youth to right this ship.  There will be mistakes and confusion, but when the speed meets speed of play we should see big gains in success.  Once the rookie fog clears (which will be on an individual basis - separate, unique learning curves,) we should see exceptional change.

 

Otherwise, at times, we could see occasional meltdowns if/when several players aren't on the same page, and can't get back online.

 

In the end, the team and the rookies will all be better off for it.  It's just a question of how quick will this year's version of "race to maturity" happen.  Since the talent has been improved, I'd expect better than what we saw from last year.  For many, it should be a shorter gap to bridge.

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