Rookie Linebackers?

[Scotman]

Let's make the wild assumption that Jaylon Smith comes in this season completely healthy. Given that, how to LBs typically do their rookie year? Are they like running backs and the transition is comparatively smooth? Or, are they like quarterbacks and you won't really see what they are capable of for a few years?

Don't get me wrong, I'm excited about the possibility of our second round pick not being completely wasted. I'm just wondering how LBs transition to the NFL. He's such a unique talent when healthy that, even without a real training camp, the thought of him taking the field excites me.

 

[CalPolyTechnique]

Depends on what LB position they're asked to play. MLB are more of the QB of the defense and require a lot more processing. WLB in most defenses are read and react guys that can utilize their athleticism to make an impact.

 

[xwalker]

Let's make the wild assumption that Jaylon Smith comes in this season completely healthy. Given that, how to LBs typically do their rookie year? Are they like running backs and the transition is comparatively smooth? Or, are they like quarterbacks and you won't really see what they are capable of for a few years?

Don't get me wrong, I'm excited about the possibility of our second round pick not being completely wasted. I'm just wondering how LBs transition to the NFL. He's such a unique talent when healthy that, even without a real training camp, the thought of him taking the field excites me.

In Marineli's defense, the LBs are the brains. He does things to simplify the job of the DLinemen. The LBs have to basically make up for that.

Having said that, overwhelming talent can overcome limited experience at times.

I really don't think Jaylon Smith will play many if any snaps at LB this season unless some of the other LBs are out injured.

I'm more interested to see Nacho play some snaps at LB. He appeared to have top notch size and athletic ability in the preseason games.

 

[JoeyBoy718]

I think he's a smart enough and athletic enough player to make an immediate impact when fully healthy. I just don't see it being this year.

 

[Irvin88_4life]

He is a more athletic Sean Lee. Smart and stays in the film room. I think he will get a few games before playoffs start and he will be ready

 

[hendog]

In Marineli's defense, the LBs are the brains. He does things to simplify the job of the DLinemen. The LBs have to basically make up for that.

Having said that, overwhelming talent can overcome limited experience at times.

I really don't think Jaylon Smith will play many if any snaps at LB this season unless some of the other LBs are out injured.

I'm more interested to see Nacho play some snaps at LB. He appeared to have top notch size and athletic ability in the preseason games.

Nzeocha was active last week? Correct?

 

[Nightman]

JSmith should start getting eased in as the Nickel LBer and work his way up to all 3 downs

 

[Toruk_Makto]

The way I look at it is this.... Sans injury he'd have gone top 5 by all accounts. You expect a top 5 player to be a day 1 impactful starter (lol Rams).

Now Smith will be behind his on field work compared to a rookie but he'll make his debut a more studied player given the time the Cowboys have to spend with him.

If he plays I think we'll notice him. I don't think he plays.

 

[xwalker]

Nzeocha was active last week? Correct?

Yes.
4 snaps on Special Teams
Zero snaps on defense

 

[jazzcat22]

Most players take a good 2 to 3 years. Some we see signs in the first year, but still rookie mistakes.

RBs can step in right away. A few OL, but really need a year. Most QBs take several years.
Most WRs and DBs need that 2 or 3 years. And a good number of DEs as well.
So I say most LBs fall into that same 2 to 3 years also.

You get the exceptions though too.

 

[Maxmadden]

The one thing in his favor is that he is working out with the staff and attending meetings and film study, so a lot of the rookie growing pains he is able to work on. Just have to wait and see.