Packers LB Hawk To Start At "Will" (1 Viewer)

[datonn]

From the Footballguys News Blogger:

Green Bay Packers rookie linebacker A.J. Hawk will likely serve as the team's starting linebacker in 2006, playing the weak side or "Will" linebacker spot in the Packers base defense. "We try to double-train as many of our guys as we can for as much as they can handle," defensive coordinator Bob Sanders said. "So for him, as far as the base defense, he'll be the Will and for as much as he can digest we'll continue to move him on and get him as ready as we can."

Source: http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=431893

 

[Donnybrook]

Well that solves that little mystery. He should be amazingly productive if they end up using the way they plan to.

But because of his speed and sideline-to-sideline range, Hawk will rarely, if ever, come off the field, thus requiring him to become familiar with the "Mike" (middle) spot when the Packers go into dime coverage and "Sam" (strong side) spot in the nickel as well.

 

[trader jake]

confirming what was widely accepted before...it's still nice to read though

 

[cr8f]

confirming what was widely accepted before...it's still nice to read though

Maybe. THey still want Hodge on the field and things can always change.

 

[Beaumont]

Blurb from Vic Carucci on NFL Network:

The Packers will take full advantage of the speed and range of first-round draft pick A.J. Hawk by following through on their plans to start him at weakside linebacker, but they also are smart to capitalize on his tremendous versatility by leaving him on the field as a middle linebacker in their dime scheme and on the strong side in their nickel package.