IIO et al...? about NG

[Telx1]

I see where most folks have Bonner as the two deep behind Cage this year. I know it is a physically demanding position, but do you think Ewell has the strength and technique to supplant Bonner here? Secondly, I was intrigued by all the coach comments about Bonner when he first arrived, so much complimentary narrative about his quick first step and natural strength, etc... that I saw him as a possible SDE for us. Seemed to me that they piled on a ton of added weight so he could help on the inside, and wonder if NG is the right position for him. Thoughts?

 

[Ara64]

I thought that he played DE this past season? He's not nearly big enough to play DT.

 

[IrishInOntario]

I have it...

SDE: Jay Hayes
2. Khaled Kareem

NG: Daniel Cage
2. Micah Dew-Treadway / Darnell Ewell

DT: Jerry Tillery
2. Jonathan Bonner

WDE: Daelin Hayes
2. Andrew Trumbetti / Julian Okwara

Ewell will play right away. There is a huge difference between starting and contributing as a freshman along the DL. Remember that guys Sheldon Day and Daniel Cage played as freshman, you simply have to keep their snaps reasonable. Ewell is an extremely strong kid and is really well put together. ND will be in constant contact with him this winter and he'll be a priority recruit to work on getting into the best shape possible without him being an early enrolee. I'd have someone from the strength staff in contact with him daily about his lifting and eating. I see him entering fall camp as a 6'3, 305lb guy after an intense summer of lifting with the new staff. I expect him to be an immediate player. How much of an impact do I expect? Nothing massive. But he should provide quality depth in year one.