Teams focus less on schemes, more on talent

[Don't Panic]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft07/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=2846239

The 2007 draft might not have as many immediate first-year linebacker starters as the past three drafts -- which boasted an average of 10 linebackers getting at least five starts -- but it's loaded with good football players who should be adaptable to whatever system in which they land.
Heading the list is Patrick Willis of Mississippi, whose strengths include versatility and the ability to adapt. His training against SEC offenses helps for what's ahead of him on draft day. The 49ers, who draft 11th, like him for their 3-4 defense. The Bills, who are looking for a run-stuffing tackling machine to replace London Fletcher, want Willis in the middle. The Panthers, who draft 14th, don't know if he would play outside or in the middle. All they know is he can play for them at any of the linebacker spots.

There's some Beason/Timmons stuff in there too... this hasn't changed my perspective as far as the Bills still drafting good Cover 2 fits, but it had some interesting insight (even if it was from Clayton).

[BILLSROCK1212]

Re: Teams focus less on schemes, more on talent

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft0...ohn&id=2846239



There's some Beason/Timmons stuff in there too... this hasn't changed my perspective as far as the Bills still drafting good Cover 2 fits, but it had some interesting insight (even if it was from Clayton).

good post....i am not really sold on us taking Willis though....infact i have no idea who we will take and no opinion....i will happy with almost anyone we have been rumored to take except Meachem

[Jan Reimers]

Re: Teams focus less on schemes, more on talent

I think Willis is the best LB in the draft, and that we'll grab him if he's available at 12 - assuming AP is already gone.

[Don't Panic]

Re: Teams focus less on schemes, more on talent

good post....i am not really sold on us taking Willis though....infact i have no idea who we will take and no opinion....i will happy with almost anyone we have been rumored to take except Meachem

I agree... I'm starting to wonder if Marv/Jauron/Fewell think he can handle the coverage responsibilities of our scheme. I don't really like anyone else at #12 though, so if its not Willis then hopefully we trade down and get an extra pick.

[Night Train]

Re: Teams focus less on schemes, more on talent

I agree with Jan and I'm pretty open to who the Bills select. I'd like Willis myself but realize you can't control what happens in front of you.

Plus you shouldn't trade away half your draft to move up a few spots (Peterson). Especially when you have multiple needs to immediately fill.

I'll just wait until the end of Sunday to see the complete body of work. Our roster will be improved and I'll be at camp to see the new faces, with an open mind and positive outlook. Is there any other way ?