Why wouldn't Cushing or Sintim make great MLB's?

[Shan the Ram Man]

Why wouldn't Cushing or Sintim make great MLB's?

I would rather have a big MLB that can roam sideline to sideline. Why do experts say they won't make good MLB's

[RockinRam]

In my opinion, Brian Cushing would be my candidate for a smoother transition from OLB to MLB.

[39thebeast]

Why wouldn't Cushing or Sintim make great MLB's?

I would rather have a big MLB that can roam sideline to sideline. Why do experts say they won't make good MLB's

Sintim looked really stiff during the Senior Bowl, and didn't look like he fit anywhere in the 4-3 defense. He is a much better fit in a 3-4 scheme ideally as an OLB. Cushing on the other hand is extremely versatile and disproved his doubters at the Senior Bowl. He looks like he could play any LB position in any scheme. He won't be around when the Rams are picking in the 2nd round.

Someone who might be a fit is Clay Matthews who is a firnge first rounder that many scouts think can play any LB position in a 4-3 and 3-4.

[Shan the Ram Man]

Hey Beast
What do scouts look for in MLB or OLB ?
What is the diference ?
I thought OLB's had to be alot faster than MLB because side line to side line.
I thought Bigger and slower linebackers played MLB.
Whats your thoughts.

[HUbison]

Hey Beast
What do scouts look for in MLB or OLB ?
What is the diference ?
I thought OLB's had to be alot faster than MLB because side line to side line.
I thought Bigger and slower linebackers played MLB.
Whats your thoughts.

There's not one stock answer, because there are so many different schemes and assignment differences in the postions. However, generally speaking in a 4-3, the WILL has to be the quickest of the three and comfortable covering the slot and run support to the weak side. The SAM doesn't have to be "as" quick, but needs to matchup with the TE on pass routes and shed him on run support. The MIKE has to be everything to everyone. He has to be a thumper run stopper between the tackles; and fall back in zone coverage to handle the middle crossing routes. And I would say the MIKE has to have a higher game IQ than any other defender, generally speaking of course. He is the Field General.