Reuben Foster | Page 979 | 49ers Webzone Forum

slowriot · 2017-04-27T20:46:54-07:00

"I thought he'd be a top five pick. He's one of the best three, four linebackers to come out of college football in the last 10 years" - Linebackers coach Johnny Holland NFL.com OVERVIEW Alabama's star inside linebacker started his ascension to elite prospect status last summer when he lost 20 pounds. His newfound speed and agility, while keeping his trademark aggression and instincts, made him a unanimous first-team All-American and All-SEC pick. Foster also won the Butkus Award as the nation's top linebacker and was a finalist for the Bednarik Award, leading the Tide with 115 tackles, 13 for which went for losses including five sacks. He won the SEC Championship MVP, as well (11 tackles, 2.5 for loss, two sacks). Foster was a starter as a junior (73 tackles, eight TFL, two sacks, nine pass break-ups) after two seasons as a key reserve MIKE linebacker and special teams ace (12 tackles in 2013; 22 tackles, two TFL in 2014). ANALYSIS STRENGTHS Alpha mentality with ferocious hitting style that puts offensive skill positions on alert. Outstanding athlete with springy, reactive feet. Lost 15 pounds in off-season, which gave him more speed and explosiveness. Loose hips and long stride allows him to open and chase immediately. Has elite sideline-to-sideline range. Tough as nails. Brings swagger to a linebacking corps. Never passive and always means it. Willing to take his shots downhill and into gaps. Lands strong warning blows on climbing guards early in the game. Coverage ability is an asset. Logged 10 passes defensed in 2015. Can carry long speed against running backs on wheel routes and nine routes. Has worked to improve tackling technique, which has yielded higher success rate of finishes. WEAKNESSES Instincts are just average. Overly reliant on speed and athleticism over instincts and feel. Can be a tick slow to respond to play-action. Inconsistent defeating blocks. Too eager to take on everyone at the point of attack. Gets shoulder covered up firing into incoming blockers. Needs to improve stack and shed technique to keep himself clean. Will drop his head at times as tackler. Poor tackling technique led to "stinger" issues early in his career. DRAFT PROJECTION Round 1 SOURCES TELL US "He's not a MIKE linebacker. I think he's a pure run-and-hit WILL linebacker with good cover talent. I'm worried about what his medicals will show because he's had some issues with stingers during his career. I have a higher grade on him than I had on Reggie Ragland. Better pro potential to me." -- NFC director of scoutingNFL COMPARISON Bobby Wagner BOTTOM LINE Foster is a vicious hitter with elite playmaking range and an ability to toggle between 225 and 240 pounds. Athleticism gives him cover ability that former teammate Reggie Ragland never possessed. Has Pro Bowl potential as a 3-4 inside linebacker or a 4-3 weak-side linebacker, but concerns over his medical history could be a consideration, according to some teams. CBS PLAYER OVERVIEW Defensive lineman Jonathan Allen was Alabama's best player in 2016. Foster, because of his potential and skill set, wasn't far behind in the mind of most NFL scouts. Starting for just the second season of his college career in 2016, Foster immediately erased concerns as to how Alabama might replace last year's leader and SEC Defensive Player of the Year, Reggie Ragland, winning the Butkus Award and consensus All-American honors with 115 tackles, including 13 tackles for loss and five sacks. Like many Alabama players, Foster signed with the Tide as an elite prep prospect, earning consensus prep All-American honors and being ranked the top inside linebacker prospect in the country. He capped his prep career with an invitation to the 2013 Under Armour All-America game, where he was named Defensive MVP. Despite the buzz, Foster had to wait his turn before seeing the field, only emerging as a full-time starter as a junior. While waiting for his turn at linebacker, Foster developed a reputation as a fierce hitter on special teams coverage units, registering 12 tackles as a true freshman in 2013 and 22 stops (including two for loss and a sack) as a sophomore before enjoying a breakout campaign at WILL linebacker in 2015, finishing second to Reggie Ragland - the SEC Defensive Player of the Year - with 73 tackles (including eight for loss) and behind only nickel cornerback Minkah Fitzpatrick with nine pass breakups. As the NFL has increasingly turned to the passing game, inside linebackers have dropped in value. That won't be the case with Foster, however, whose sideline to sideline speed, explosive hitting and experience in coverage makes him one of the few linebackers in recent years who truly projects as a three-down defender at the position. With all due respect to Ragland - a more instinctive and reliable open-field tackler than Foster - this latest Alabama star at linebacker projects even better to the NFL. STRENGTHS: At a rock solid 6-1, 240 pounds with broad shoulders, a trim middle and well-built limbs, Foster offers prototypical size for an inside linebacker role. His greatest attribute, however, is his pure explosiveness. Whether it be his outstanding sideline-to-sideline speed or the impact he generates with his collisions, Foster is a heat-seeking missile hell-bent on destruction. Just as aggressive as he is athletic, Foster attacks would-be blockers in the running game, jolting opponents with a powerful punch that can leave them staggering. When blockers are successful in latching onto him, Foster shows impressive leg drive and balance to anchor, creating a pile runners have to avoid and easy tackle opportunities for teammates. Foster is a true lights-out hitter, generating bone-rattling hits due to his acceleration and compact frame. He launches himself into ballcarriers, typically wrapping his arms securely, as well, for the flashy but efficient take-down. Foster shows acute diagnosis skills. He takes sharp angles to the ball, often beating blockers to the action and surprising ballcarriers with his closing speed. Foster keeps his eyes locked onto the quarterback when in coverage, breaking quickly as the pass is released, often initiating contact with the intended receiver just as the ball arrives. WEAKNESSES: At times, Foster appears too athletic and aggressive for his own good. His sharp pursuit angles leave little room for error and, at times, he can get a little too far over his skis, flailing his arms to keep his balance while throttling down to change direction. Savvy quarterbacks can manipulate Foster with their eyes and he'll lose track of receivers around him, closing the gap between them only after the ball is being thrown. While this can result in some big collisions (and passes broken up), Foster can improve his coverage with greater route awareness and patience. To this point, Foster's calling card has been his explosive hits, but he has to be careful about lowering his head when tackling. Further, he remains unpolished as a pass rusher. Foster's power and aggression shine through when rushing the quarterback, but he is largely reliant on a simple bull rush or shoulder dip. Suffered various "minor" injuries in 2016, including to his arm, knee and head (concussion), each of which will require careful evaluation from team doctors at the Combine. IN OUR VIEW: With all due respect to Myles Garrett and the rest of this dynamic edge rusher class, Foster might just be the most explosive defender in the entire 2017 draft. An intimidating face-up hitter with sideline-to-sideline speed, Foster projects as an immediate difference-maker in the middle in the NFL and a possible top 10 choice. COMPARES TO: Patrick Willis, San Francisco 49ers (retired): Willis did it at a higher level for longer at Mississippi but he did not have to wait his turn like Foster at Alabama, who was left to star in a supporting role on defense and special teams early. Once unleashed, however, his sheer explosiveness made him an undeniable force for the Tide. If able to remain healthy - a legitimate concern given the mighty collisions he creates - Foster projects as a future Pro Bowler. --Rob Rang (1/23/17)

May 22, 2018 at 4:44 PM

#14671

mayo49
Veteran
Posts: 65,216

Originally posted by Lobo49er:

Originally posted by VaBeachNiner:

Originally posted by luv49rs:

Originally posted by mayo49:
I need some goddamn Reuben Foster court news.

lol poor mayo

Dude has been waiting in front of his computer with no pants this whole time.

Holding two beers.

Lol, I just need some news, man.

May 22, 2018 at 5:32 PM

#14672

napo
Veteran
Posts: 259

Originally posted by mayo49:

Originally posted by Lobo49er:

Originally posted by VaBeachNiner:

Originally posted by luv49rs:

Originally posted by mayo49:
I need some goddamn Reuben Foster court news.

lol poor mayo

Dude has been waiting in front of his computer with no pants this whole time.

Holding two beers.

Lol, I just need some news, man.

Consider that there may be a trial (esp on the gun charge) and then an appeal--which could take months. I think we should all chip in to pay for a psychotherapist for this poor fan.

May 22, 2018 at 6:12 PM

#14673

49oz2superbowl
Veteran
Posts: 3,615

Originally posted by 9erReign:
Not every person is a 49er fan lol. You have to realize the bias in this thread.

Seriously stop trolling this thread. You are the one that's biased and refuses to provide logic besides an LOL

Regardless of fan affiliation there is significant objective evidence that exonerates Foster and invalidates the initial
accusations.

1 - injuries do not amount to punches AT ALL
2 - video of her getting in a fight 12 hrs before which match with injuries sustained
3 - her previous arrest for false DV charge against an ex,
4 - guy that picked her up said she was totally calm and no visible injuries (again not consistent with the allegations at all)
5 - proof of breaking into his house after the breakup which would not happen from someone fleeing abuse
6 - text messages of her threatening to ruin his career and the 49ers for breaking up with her
7 - she legit robbed him of 2 rolexes and thousands of dollars

Oh and 8- she recanted UNDER OATH which that combined with the above holds far more weight than what an unstable woman says in a fit of rage.

At this point, there is zero evidence that suggests Foster is guilty. The only reason this goes to trial is a formality or the judge not wanting to make the ineviatable decision - a huge waste of tax payer money.

Stop.

May 22, 2018 at 8:12 PM

#14674

btthepunk
Veteran
Posts: 23,304

Originally posted by JMC52:
Originally posted by luv49rs:
Originally posted by Lobo49er:
Originally posted by Fanaticofnfl:
What time is the State of the Franchise event tomorrow? Do you think they'll reference Foster at all or keep it quiet?

I'd bet money they don't address that at all.

Of course, I'm so often wrong that I wouldn't be surprised when/if I lost.

I agree. I think it would be weird for them to discuss something like that when they're trying to project a positive attitude and promote excitement for the season

At least his name will be cleared, half of the zone wanted to burn him at the stake before letting the facts come out.

And some of them still want to.

May 22, 2018 at 8:42 PM

#14675

4thandlong
Veteran
Posts: 899

Originally posted by JMC52:
At least his name will be cleared, half of the zone wanted to burn him at the stake before letting the facts come out.

Half?

90% more like it.

May 23, 2018 at 4:12 AM

#14676

mayo49
Veteran
Posts: 65,216

Well, announcement day is here, we'll learn today if Reuben will stand trail or charges will be dismissed. Let's all wish a good luck to our ILB and hope we can all move on and get back to our normal lives.

May 23, 2018 at 4:36 AM

#14677

JMC52
Veteran
Posts: 4,605

Originally posted by 4thandlong:
Originally posted by JMC52:
At least his name will be cleared, half of the zone wanted to burn him at the stake before letting the facts come out.

Half?

90% more like it.

True

May 23, 2018 at 4:55 AM

#14678

NYniner85
Veteran
Posts: 118,869

Originally posted by 49oz2superbowl:
Originally posted by 9erReign:
Not every person is a 49er fan lol. You have to realize the bias in this thread.

Seriously stop trolling this thread. You are the one that's biased and refuses to provide logic besides an LOL

Regardless of fan affiliation there is significant objective evidence that exonerates Foster and invalidates the initial
accusations.

1 - injuries do not amount to punches AT ALL
2 - video of her getting in a fight 12 hrs before which match with injuries sustained
3 - her previous arrest for false DV charge against an ex,
4 - guy that picked her up said she was totally calm and no visible injuries (again not consistent with the allegations at all)
5 - proof of breaking into his house after the breakup which would not happen from someone fleeing abuse
6 - text messages of her threatening to ruin his career and the 49ers for breaking up with her
7 - she legit robbed him of 2 rolexes and thousands of dollars

Oh and 8- she recanted UNDER OATH which that combined with the above holds far more weight than what an unstable woman says in a fit of rage.

At this point, there is zero evidence that suggests Foster is guilty. The only reason this goes to trial is a formality or the judge not wanting to make the ineviatable decision - a huge waste of tax payer money.

Stop.

Thank god the FO let the legal system do it's job instead of listening to be a bunch of fans/journalists who weren't informed of all the info.

God forbid someone takes the local approach and sees if someone actually did it before crucifying him.

May 23, 2018 at 5:42 AM

#14679

RiceOwensStokes
Veteran
Posts: 9,464

Today's the day!(again) hope to hear the good news that the case has been dismissed

May 23, 2018 at 6:13 AM

#14680

49ERnation
Veteran
Posts: 5,443

Originally posted by Aj_hwd954:
Today's the day!(again) hope to hear the good news that the case has been dismissed

Shoot we've said that so often At this point I wouldn't be surprised if we get another delay lol

May 23, 2018 at 7:26 AM

#14681

Jcool
Veteran
Posts: 44,525

The best linebackers in the NFL! pic.twitter.com/CTzL2pUAvA
— Pro Football Focus (@PFF) May 23, 2018

May 23, 2018 at 7:30 AM

#14682

NJNiner
Veteran
Posts: 8,855

What time is this supposed to happen?

May 23, 2018 at 7:39 AM

#14683

IHATELOWELLCOHN
Veteran
Posts: 1,396

Originally posted by NJNiner:
What time is this supposed to happen?

Judge's ruling is expected at around 3:30pm according to ABC 7 news.

May 23, 2018 at 7:42 AM

#14684

mayo49
Veteran
Posts: 65,216

Originally posted by IHATELOWELLCOHN:

Originally posted by NJNiner:
What time is this supposed to happen?

Judge's ruling is expected at around 3:30pm according to ABC 7 news.

Really?, I thought it was in the morning.

May 23, 2018 at 7:44 AM

#14685

IHATELOWELLCOHN
Veteran
Posts: 1,396

Originally posted by mayo49:
Originally posted by IHATELOWELLCOHN:
Originally posted by NJNiner:
What time is this supposed to happen?

Judge's ruling is expected at around 3:30pm according to ABC 7 news.

Really?, I thought it was in the morning.

I know right?!? I don't know why it's that late today. I wonder how accurate that report is?