Inside Linebacker Depth

Butter · 2010-09-23T15:23:06-07:00

I couldn't find an existing thread on this, but it seems like a pretty significant issue. With Takeo Spikes banged up, the Niners are going into this game with 2 1/2 ILBs. Willis, Bowman (rookie), and Spikes (who knows if he'll be able to go). Manusky Quote Long term I'd like to see the Niners dramatically upgrade their OLB position. I'm not seeing a lot from Haralson. Could he be successful at ILB, specifically the TED? Also, is there anyone out there that the Niners could trade for to shore up that depth?

Sep 23, 2010 at 3:29 PM

znk916
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Posts: 4,285

I think Haralson would be a good candidate to permanently move inside, where his lack of athleticism wouldn't be exposed as much imo. I could be wrong about that, but it's not like Takeo runs like a deer anymore either. Not only that but it would free up Brooks for a much more prominent role.

Sep 23, 2010 at 3:35 PM

superman49er
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Posts: 361

sign wilhelm back

Sep 23, 2010 at 3:35 PM

Gore_21
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Posts: 12,685

I am really confident in Bowman (he has played outstanding since his first game of pre season.) I think Brooks played 3 or 4 years in college as ILB. He probably could play it if we need to although he has gained weight so not sure he could move around as well as he use to.

Sep 23, 2010 at 3:36 PM

valrod33
Hall of Small
Posts: 138,120

Originally posted by superman49er:
sign wilhelm back

cant until week 11

Takeo is probably gonna play

Takeo Spikes (knee contusion) should be ready to play according to Manusky. If he’s not able to start, rookie NaVorro Bowman is next up on the 49ers inside linebacker depth chart. Manusky said outside linebackers Parys Haralson and Manny Lawson would be the emergency replacements behind Bowman.

Sep 23, 2010 at 3:55 PM

Kolohe
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Posts: 67,023

I'm assuming Manusky would slide Haralson or Lawson to Ted due to Ahmad Brooks' pass-rush is far better than the two.

Sep 23, 2010 at 4:12 PM

Gore_21
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Posts: 12,685

Originally posted by Kolohe:
I'm assuming Manusky would slide Haralson or Lawson to Ted due to Ahmad Brooks' pass-rush is far better than the two.

If Bowman got hurt I would then Go Haralson at Ted and put Manny and Brooks at OLB.

Semi-off topic but I seen Brooks in early on first/second down for Lawson but it was rare if only one time. LaBoy has been in a lot for Haralson on 3rd downs.