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Would love to see Gooden get drafted. While undersized and not demonstrating an exuberant amount of pass rush technique/reps, I think he could be either A) a serviceable OLB or B) (what I really would like him as) a coverage ILB that can play all 3 downs.
Most immediately would say: "Why Sorter, don't you want to have a thumper as your Mike in a 3-4? Isn't Gooden the exact opposite?"
Yes. However, with the way the NFL is played now, teams don't just run 1st and 2nd down and throw on third. You need quality ILBs who can drop into coverage in base, nickel, and dime fronts. IMO, you need those more than a quality thumper (who will likely play 1 down consistently ala Belcher). With more teams utilizing 3W and 2TE (who can run and catch) sets, it seems exceptionally prudent to ensure you have ILBs who can cover.
The 49ers are a fantastic example of this, however even they have started to remove Willis occasionally against passing formations as he ages.
You need two ILBs who can cover. You also need a reliable, aggressive nickel corner as well as a pass rushing 3 tech. These positions that were and are still commonly referred to as "sub package players" are going to be viewed as starters in the future.
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