Chris Long... Stud or Dud (1 Viewer)

[HITMANMVP96]

Chris Long...

Pros - Great Pedigree... Best hand action I have seen (technician)... Never Ending Motor

Cons - Undersized a bit... Can't get rid of the blocker... Not the fastest

Long finished the year strong, but will he ever develop into a Aaron Schobel, Patrick Kerney, or Justin Smith type? Who has some insight on this guy and his progression?

 

[Jene Bramel]

I agree with your scouting assessments and there's some indication that he may finally have made strides in pass rush during the second half of 2009 (four sacks, with nine hits and 13 pressures per PFF). But, despite the motor, I'm not sure I see the same ability in run support as the comps you've put up -- during his somewhat impressive second half run he made only ten non-sack solo tackles -- and his closing speed in the pocket has also been questionable.

There's a small glimmer of hope that another season in the Spagnuolo system and the potential that the Rams could address the defensive line this offseason could give Long a boost in statistical upside. But, realistically, I think his current upside is in the 35-40 solo/6-8 sack range. That would put him in the solid, but unspectacular DL2 range. To be elite, he'd need to put up double digit sacks with his current tackle numbers or greatly increase his run support numbers. I don't think either are a great bet after last season's performance.

 

[HITMANMVP96]

I agree with your scouting assessments and there's some indication that he may finally have made strides in pass rush during the second half of 2009 (four sacks, with nine hits and 13 pressures per PFF). But, despite the motor, I'm not sure I see the same ability in run support as the comps you've put up -- during his somewhat impressive second half run he made only ten non-sack solo tackles -- and his closing speed in the pocket has also been questionable.There's a small glimmer of hope that another season in the Spagnuolo system and the potential that the Rams could address the defensive line this offseason could give Long a boost in statistical upside. But, realistically, I think his current upside is in the 35-40 solo/6-8 sack range. That would put him in the solid, but unspectacular DL2 range. To be elite, he'd need to put up double digit sacks with his current tackle numbers or greatly increase his run support numbers. I don't think either are a great bet after last season's performance.

Thanks Jene... I think your assessment will prove quite accurate

 

[FUBAR]

I agree with your scouting assessments and there's some indication that he may finally have made strides in pass rush during the second half of 2009 (four sacks, with nine hits and 13 pressures per PFF). But, despite the motor, I'm not sure I see the same ability in run support as the comps you've put up -- during his somewhat impressive second half run he made only ten non-sack solo tackles -- and his closing speed in the pocket has also been questionable.There's a small glimmer of hope that another season in the Spagnuolo system and the potential that the Rams could address the defensive line this offseason could give Long a boost in statistical upside. But, realistically, I think his current upside is in the 35-40 solo/6-8 sack range. That would put him in the solid, but unspectacular DL2 range. To be elite, he'd need to put up double digit sacks with his current tackle numbers or greatly increase his run support numbers. I don't think either are a great bet after last season's performance.

I always like it when I agree with your view on IDP. I traded for Long this year as my #3 behind Mario and Osi and think he's a good fit there, not sure I'd like him as my #2.