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NOFALCONS10
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Everything is too scheme-dependent to make sweeping statements like that.The traditional 2 down, downhill thumper Linebackers that come in at 240-45 lbs. are becoming extinct.
The league is shifting towards athletic Linebackers that might fit more of the SS physical build, but being able to chase plays down to the sideline and being capable of dropping into coverage are a must with the way the game is evolving.
Isaiah Simmons is going to be the future of what teams look for from the Linebacking position. Passing is King in the modern day NFL and you need the speed and athletism to cover the edges against the Shanahan/Kubiak style schemes that stress the edges with all the boot actions.
Dre Greenlaw is the perfect example he's 5-11 and only 225 coming out of Arkansas and only went in the 5th round but turned out to be one of the most valuable Linebackers taken in last year's draft from a team value perspective. Deion Jones was undersized too but has translated into one of the best pure Coverage Mike backers in the NFL.
The 260lb Donta Hightowers of the world can still find a role as a downhill strongside guy inside of a 3-4 Just like Vaughn Johnson could back in the day.