Green Bay Packers: Zach Cunningham, LB, Vanderbilt

The Packers have endured problems at inside linebacker for years. Jake Ryan is a decent player, but the middle of Green Bay's defense won't ever be overly potent until Ted Thompson finds a stud inside linebacker that he hasn't possessed in a very long time. Zach Cunningham could be the answer to many of the Packers' problems.

Zach Cunningham*, ILB, Vanderbilt
Height: 6-4. Weight: 230.
Projected 40 Time: 4.75.
Projected Round (2017): 1-2.
11/19/16: In 2016, Cunningham has 104 tackles with 15.5 for a loss, one pass batted and one forced fumble. He has been a phenomenal run defender with excellent instincts. Cunningham is strong to take on offensive linemen, shed blocks, and then make tackles. He has done well in pass coverage and showed the ability to be a three-down starter in the NFL. There has been buzz about Cunningham in scouting circles, and teams are giving him late first-round/early second-round grades.

8/13/16: There has been some buzz about Cunningham in scouting circles. It can be hard to get noticed playing when playing for a team that has struggled on the field, but Cunningham managed to do that in 2015 as he turned in a strong season. He totaled 103 tackles with 16.5 tackles for a loss, 4.5 sacks, three passes batted and four forced fumbles on the year. Cunningham was only a redshirt sophomore last season and has upside to develop.

I think we're seeing more and more that SS are the future at LB. Burnett has looked good at ILB.

Also due to injuries, FAs and potential retirements... the Packers are looking weak at the top more important defensive positions in CB and Edge Rusher. With this draft, said to be stocked with RBs and CBs high, I wouldn't be shocked if the Packers grabbed a CB in the first round... or edge rusher if they like one of the ones available.

But I'm also looking hard at WR Cory Davis and TE O.J. Howard... Davis could potential be the future Nelson type and now might be a good time to grab and start developing him. Howard has all the physical potential in the world, but hasn't produced in the passing game, in part due to his college system doesn't ask him to produce too much in the passing game, but because of that, he's very raw with his route running, but he's got all the physical skills... question is can you teach him?

Originally Posted by: beast 

Gentlemen, I very much enjoy reading post in threads like this one. Your post while entertaining, are also most informative as well. I must however ask that in the future that along with the prospective players name/position that you please also state the players school. Many of us are not as learned about them and knowing their school serves as additional basic knowledge. A simple ( School Name ) following the first mention of the player in a posting will serve just fine.

THANKS [cheers]

Originally Posted by: Smokey 

Projected pick? Who the fuck ever is the best player at number 32 baby!!! ;-)

Originally Posted by: Zero2Cool 

I did. No one else commented on a specific player so I am not sure what the reason for your request. In the past many people have left the school or position off their post. I simply googled the players name. That that big of a deal. I could actually learn more about the player than the poster's comments so it was a win for me.

Originally Posted by: wpr