Valero’s Vision for Running Backs
from another Ram's site ..
den-the-coach
Setting the Record Straight ..
Posted: Tue Jun 03, 2008 8:02 am Post subject: Valero’s Vision for Running Backs
When the Rams hired the ballyhooed assistant from Tampa nobody seemed to know just exactly what area Valero would be coaching, however, once RB Coach Wayne Mosses headed back to the collegiate ranks, it was quite obvious that the running backs would have a different man to answer to and one that had achieved success at the NFL level.
Valero took some parting shots at his former boss in Jon Gruden, however, now Valero oversees a unit where he must ensure that
Steven Jackson continues to develop into a perennial all pro and to ensure the Rams do not exhaust their greatest asset by developing the likes of Brian Leonard and Antonio Pittman respectively. Hell, Valero coached at Louisville as well so maybe he can figure out what exactly Richard Owens can do.
Valero had been an invaluable member of the Bucs’ offensive staff since his arrival in 2002. After two seasons as the tight ends coach, he took over the backs in 2004 and had helped that unit to four strong seasons. In 2004, running back Michael Pittman ran for 926 yards despite missing the first three games of the year, averaging 4.2 yards per tote. In 2005, Valero tutored the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year, running back Cadillac Williams, who broke the team’s rookie rushing record with 1,178 yards and last season Ernest Graham, ran for 898 yards and ten touchdowns so Valero has been successful with three totally different types of running backs.
So what does Art Valero have in store for the running backs once they hit Mequon? Many have questioned the resume of other assistants, but few can debate the success of the La Mirada, California native and the depth is quite thin at running back presently. Will the Rams make a trade to upgrade their depth? Will Brian Leonard finally prove worthy of a second round selection? Can Coach Valero teach each back how to block and develop a dependable back-up to Jackson besides finding a full back that does not shy away from contact? A tall order, but Valero could not wait to be released from the iron fist of Gruden…Well coach, be careful what you wish for!
Hope I'm not breaking any rules here. I enjoyed this post and found it informative and therefore wanted to share it .. New O-line coach, new RB coach, Al Saunders ... Dare we dream of shades of 99 ?? _________________
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