If we're looking for guys better suited for a 43, then Jones, for me, fits in. He's not bad as a passrusher, but that's because he's been able to add some size/strength to his game to go with speed. That said, he's awkward in space, and I'm not sure I'd trust him to do much of anything besides engaging a lineman and rushing the passer. Rd 2/3 makes sense because he does have potential, but overall just not that impressive to me. And I wouldn't necessarily knock Kerrigan when it comes to athleticism. He might not have been JPP, but the kid always had closing speed, and could turn a corner as good as most.
I remember when Kerrigan was coming out, he was said to have stiff hips and many questioned his ability to play in space. Now, the pick looks awesome and was a formation of an OLB duo that should be one of the best for years to come. As for Chandler Jones, I can see what you’re saying, outside of round 1, who else would you look to then?
Mercilus is loaded with red flags. I prefer Upshaw, Curry, and anyone else with consistent production and some experience dropping in to coverage. We already have a pure pass rusher in Maybin. What we really need is a 3 down linebacker with pass rush ability. I'm not sure Mercilus is that guy. I've been following the draft for too long to get excited about one year wonders. -X-
Was really high on Mercilus for a while, but after watching more tape I'm gonna have to say I'd prefer Upshaw for sure. Just seems like a better fit and is more well rounded while still being a great pass rusher.
Agreed. We need someone more well rounded at OLB that can still get after the passer. After what happened with Gholston you know they will not make the same mistake twice and high sack numbers won't be the only factor. I like Upshaw or Ingram more.
I wanna see more of Mercilus. The highlights I have seen demonstrate size,motor,hips, change of direction and correct usage of his hands. What i'd like to see more of, is him running the Arc. Can he use speed to rush upfield and possibly beat an OT/TE clean straight into the backfield? If he can do that I see a first round pass rusher. Can anyone tell me how he is setting the edge and defending against the run? One thing in his favor from a Jets perspective, is the Jets seem to LOVE big 10 players.
I totally disagree. I'm not gonna try to convince you, but I think you're wrong. Gholston never had the motor and fire that Mercilius has.
I was watching the Texans the other day and a number 59 caught my eye. Come to find out it was Mercillius; he looks pretty fluid out there as an OLB. Looks like he wasn't too stiff for the position after all.
I was pretty much right about Mercilus. Guy is an heck of a pass rusher. I'm not to upset at the outcome as i did become a fan of Coples during the draft process and he has come on for us here at the end. Mercilus would of been the perfect OLB for us tho.
