http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap100...could-play-ilb
Thoughts?
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He is a developing player with a lot of talent. I think he can make the transition and excel at it if he commits to it. So many like the cache of the pass rushing OLB, but if he can run stop ( which I think he has shown he can) he could set himself up to be one of the future leaders of this defense.
In a 3-4, I can see it, easily. Plus, gives them FA options and draft options. This time of year though alot of bluffing can be going on with the draft upcoming.
I think he could. I have ALWAYS said Upshaw is a beast. If I am the FO, I 'd already be thinking about locking him up in a few years, he may turn out to be a pro-bowl player.
I think Upshaw would excel at ILB. He is over 270 lbs. and is good against the run. Also, he doesn't have the speed to excel as an edge pass rusher, but could be more effective as a bull rusher inside. that could set the Ravens up to draft a player like Arthur Brown early or Kevin Reddick in the 3rd-4th round, as both players could play ILB or OLB.
Paul Kruger took 3 years to find his niche because we tried to do different things with him. I think that should be a cautionary tale (as well as Michael Oher) whenever they are considering taking a promising young player and moving him to a different position. I understand the thought process behind it (having your best players out there at all times) but some players may not have the aptitude to transition to a new position.
Makes sense to develop him inside and out as the article says, so you have the best players on the field...but I also had a thought that it could be a bit of a smokescreen Pre draft.
Pees said all his players can play different positions so they can slide them in when needed. They might play Up at ILB some but it doesn't mean he will move him there permamently. Radio just said they will draft someone for that spot.