So from reading recruiting updates it doesn't sound like any LB recruits have much interest in us. Does the coaching staff have a rabbit under their hat or are there any potential recruits we just aren't hearing a lot about? It's an area of need and as of now we have 0 commitments. Any info is appreciated, thanks.
Brandin Hawthorne is an LB
One or two safeties might
One or two safeties might move to LB. Also, Mingo is still in the mix. We've already got Hawthorne. So this class could produce 3 or 4 linebackers.
We have a few
Hawthorne is a LB, and Jones and/or Bell likely end up at OLB. Also, remember that Cam Gordon might well end up as an OLB. If we are light, it is specifically at MIKE, but with Demens and Fitz last year we have two young-uns.
I know we have some hybrid types
But in terms of ready to play true positional LB's we don't have anything. Hawthorn is way undersized and the other guys are making the transition (Gordon's rating is as a WR not LB, not to say he can't play it). I think Bell stays at safety after showing his coverage skills. Mingo has all but indicated in most things I have read he will be at LSU. I was hoping for Dan Mason but it sounds like not even that is going to pan out. Here's to hoping Ezeh, Mouton, and Fitzgerald are improved.
When have we ever had a
When have we ever had a ready-to-play true freshman linebacker? Linebacker is not usually a position where you can throw a guy in there as a true freshman and expect production. If we got an absolute stud like Jelani Jenkins or Frankie Telfort or Vontaze Burfict or something, maybe. But even if Mingo came, he probably wouldn't be ready to contribute immediately. And Mason wouldn't beat out Ezeh or Fitzgerald, either.
I bet both Mike Jones and Ike
I bet both Mike Jones and Ike Bell convert to OLB because we have Vlad and Thomas Gordon already at safety. Ike might stay at safety if Cam Gordon moves to LB (which I hope he does) but either way that's three LB guys in this class. That's not bad.
Dont forget
LB willie ferrell will be in this weekend
I totally forgot about him
Thanks for the reminder, it would be nice if we could pull him or Mingo to add to the class. My dream recruiting finish would be one of those 2, Denard Robinson, Marcus Hall, Travante Stallworth, Sam Montgomery, and Je'Ron Stokes.
Starters
Obi came in at RB. Mouton a S. With Hawthorne, Bell, and Jones we should be fine.
and Mike Jones, Isaiah Bell or possibly both will be, and if Cameron Gordon doesn't work out at WR he might be too. I realize those aren't the "true" LBs you're looking for, but its not 0 commitments.