I was kind of thinking the 2+ Yerko. I agree with most of yours. The ones that we may differ on are Lane Taylor, Don Barclay and Brad Jones. As far as Taylor goes, I just recall them being really high on him last year, and with another offseason's training at the pro level, I was thinking he, along with Sherrod to cover the T position, may surpass Barclay. I've got nothing against Barclay at all, just think he could find himself the odd man out. As versatile as he is, he did have his struggles at RT last season.
For the life of me, I am not seeing the Brad Jones thing at ILB. He did fine inside by making a little noise, but in pass coverage he was abysmal. Truth be told, I soured on him last season, and even more so the season before. I couldn't believe Ted gave him the contract he did, and maybe that has skewed my own perspective on him. I really thought he would be better in coverage because of his speed and size. I will hold out hope that this is the year where the light goes on and he is able to put it all together.
The other aspect of his game that I didn't see as warranting the contract was what I saw was a big lack of pure instincts for the position. Again, maybe that is my own preconceived notions on him clouding my judgement. All I know, is I want those instincts of a heat seeking missile there... and maybe I'm wanting too much. Then again, a player like Sam Barrington could come in a stealsthe job with a great TC. That is kind of my hope.
I do see where Sean Richardson is going to have to battle big time, same for Chris Banjo. I like both of these players and hope for the best with them. Love Richardson's size and determination in coming back from the spinal fusion. I like Banjo's intensity. He plays bigger than his stature.
Regardless, there are going to be some veteran players who have a couple of years or more in our system who may be surprised to not make the cut, as I believe we have really ramped up the talent level this offseason.
Originally Posted by: play2win