ESPN's new mock

[swede]

I would prefer to see them get Keith Rivers if he's available, but I not going to complain about Rodgers-Cromartie either.

Where would you play another 225 pound linebacker? He is too small to play the strongside in this scheme. You almost have to be a defensive end. Poppinga is about 250.

His scouting notes concerning size, strength, playing style all make him sound just like Ernie Sims who was also 225lbs when he came out. You can increase a player's weight and size with appropriate training. Can you teach the already heavy enough player the necessary instincts to be a tackling monster that plays with an attitude, delivers sledgehammer type hits, and has a non-stop motor like Sims and Rivers seem to be? Not so easy to put all of the onus just on size, I think. Rivers is the same height as Hawk, Rivers has the room to gain weight without sacrificing much speed. Not saying he's perfect for us, just that you don't have to pidgeon hole a LB because of his college playing weight, they all beef up if they have to when they transition. A 6' 5" Urlacher started at 220 out of college as a safety, gradually put on 40 lbs in first few years. Draft talent, attitude, and instincts ahead of weight--in my opinion the scale is the easiest trait to influence.

Good post.

Things you can't coach ( easily) are a motor or foot speed, and attitude towords the proper application of aggression.

It's hard to teach a loser (the fella that just gives enough for another payday) to be a winner in a team concept. That falls under the heading PROPER Systems and Schemes and Directed Goal Orientation.

Weed and Feed based in objective analysis and no room for false pride. That's why it must be all about the fan.

It's impossible to coach God's rare gifts or size in terms of hands, arm length and height.

One of the most insane ramblings I have heard in a while.

I agree. Might be time to tweak the meds.