Based on observing LBs at Monday's practice, few of these guys showed any ability to play on regular downs, so they should be viewed as STers only. (Yes, it was only one practice, so add it to the body of evidence as you all see fit...!) For example, on pass rush drills, Izzo was pushed around pretty easily on *every* attempt. He made Eckel and Jordan look pretty good in pass protection. I doubt Izzo has the speed to contribute as a coverage LB. Guyton may have speed, but did not display any moves or agility. He was routinely contained. Actually, the one guy who looked good rushing the passer was Tank Williams. On several passes he was around his man, and in on Brady, (before deliberately peeling away around Brady). Woods seemed to be in coverage more than usual, or I didn't notice him rushing. (He made the play of the day picking off Cassel with a one-handed grab over his shoulder in traffic...took it to the house.) As for Alexander, from about 75 yards away I could hear BB chew him out ("C'mon, Eric!"). At least Alexander looked like he was trying to win the end-of-practice sprints. I should note that like Alexander, Crable got a tongue lashing or two as well. But as a rookie that is pretty much expected. Crable also got pulled aside a couple of times for what appeared to be meaningful instruction. Mayo looked strong and active. He's a player...
I have 6 players that will make the team because of their special teams contribution and the fact that they can play another position Evans, Aiken, Guyton, Woods, Washington, and Slater.
Izzo WAS a Pro Bowl Special Teamer. He isn't anymore. Woods led the ST in tackles. Izzo is too small to play ILB. He is 5' 10" 238 and ran at best a 4.6 when he started his career. Guyton is 6'3" 242 and runs a sub 4.5 (thats faster than nearly all but two WR's). Tank Williams is 6' 2" 225 and is now a backup ILB. I have both Alexander and Izzo on my cut list. Izzo just isn't good enough anymore to keep a specilaist as a special teamer only.
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