cHaD711Johnson Posted June 7, 2005 Report Share Posted June 7, 2005 http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/3666462Backup DT Matthias Askew's foot injury makes LDT Bryan Robinson the most valuable acquisition of the offseason. Robinson, a free agent from the Dolphins, solidifies the defensive line and upgrades the 26th-ranked run because of his strength and power. He's able to take on double teams and hold his gap, which should allow RDT John Thornton, LE Justin Smith and RE Robert Geathers to rush the quarterback with authority because of more one-on-one opportunities. Robinson, 31, credits strength coach Chip Morton with improving his core strength and flexibility to the point where he feels young again. Askew missed 11 games as a rookie in 2004 because of knee troubles. He's expected to make an impact in the tackle rotation but may not be ready for the July 29 start of training camp. His injury opens the door for Sean Smith and Terrance Martin to win a spot behind Robinson, Thornton and top DT sub Langston Moore. . . .WR Peter Warrick (knee, leg) and MLB Nate Webster (knee) will be given every chance to overcome injuries and play key roles this fall. The fact that both survived June 1 cuts is a testament to how badly head coach Marvin Lewis wants to win. Releasing one or both would provide cap relief, but the club is confident Warrick and Webster will make solid contributions in a long-awaited playoff run.SCOUTING REPORT: LT Levi Jones has shown tremendous improvement in all phases, especially as a run blocker. He has the strength to push the pile consistently and finishes blocks with authority. He's an explosive player who is comfortable in space and does a good job of blocking moving targets. His strength is pass blocking. He gets a good jam on ends with his long arms and forces edge rushers to take wider angles to the quarterback. He has good foot quickness and balance and plays under control. His effort, consistency and technique were issues in the past, but he has made huge strides in all areas.IMPACT NEWCOMER: Rookie first-round draft pick LB David Pollack will have the most impact schematically. Because of his versatility, he'll be utilized in a variety of ways. As the strongside linebacker, he'll be asked to contain the outside run. He'll also drop in coverage, both in zone and in man-to-man against the tight end. But his strength is rushing the quarterback. Pollack will be a factor in the zone-blitz, and he'll put his hand on the ground at the line of scrimmage as a third-down, left-end pass rusher in the nickel defense. He'll need time to adjust in his transition to linebacker from college defensive end, but he'll get put in a position to succeed. Once he gets comfortable with his assignments and alignments, his athletic ability should take over. He reads and reacts quickly, sheds well and shows excellent range.GUARDS/CENTERS ANALYSIS: Grade: B. The unit is loaded with veteran experience and has plenty of depth in case injuries crop up. Those qualities make the interior line an area of strength. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Spain Posted June 7, 2005 Report Share Posted June 7, 2005 OK wheres Justin go in the nikel RDE? Thats what I want to know. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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