BlackFrancis
Practice Squad Player
- Joined
- Feb 16, 2009
- Messages
- 115
- Reaction score
- 0
The biggest lure with Rolando McClain is his experience playing in the middle of a 3-4. He absolutely understands what his responsibilities are in the old Fairbanks 3-4. McClain also has very fluid hips in coverage and has terrific size.
That said, he is by no means a generational talent in my eyes. He's nimble for a large man but I'd be hesitant to describe him as quick. His top end speed is adequate but nothing spectacular. To that point, I'm guessing he will run the 40 and the shuttle a bit slower than you'd want to see come combine time. He's got a very strong upper body but he doesn't generate the power you'd expect out of his legs. He has shown he can shed guards but they still blow him up occasionally and he's also been smoked by college fullbacks. That happens to every MLB but it needs to be pointed out, I think.
When I've watched McClain play, I tend to see Roman Pfifer with better instincts. Now, if I had a chance to pick up a young Roman Pfifer at #22 overall, I'd be tempted but I wouldn't be chasing #22 with a second rounder for the privilege. Micah Johnson will be there in the 2nd round and while there is quite a bit of projection when talking about Johnson in a 3-4, the guy is strong, fast, quick and instinctual - a really nice package of skills.
That said, he is by no means a generational talent in my eyes. He's nimble for a large man but I'd be hesitant to describe him as quick. His top end speed is adequate but nothing spectacular. To that point, I'm guessing he will run the 40 and the shuttle a bit slower than you'd want to see come combine time. He's got a very strong upper body but he doesn't generate the power you'd expect out of his legs. He has shown he can shed guards but they still blow him up occasionally and he's also been smoked by college fullbacks. That happens to every MLB but it needs to be pointed out, I think.
When I've watched McClain play, I tend to see Roman Pfifer with better instincts. Now, if I had a chance to pick up a young Roman Pfifer at #22 overall, I'd be tempted but I wouldn't be chasing #22 with a second rounder for the privilege. Micah Johnson will be there in the 2nd round and while there is quite a bit of projection when talking about Johnson in a 3-4, the guy is strong, fast, quick and instinctual - a really nice package of skills.