I think Calvin Pace was brought in because of his versatility. He can line up at any 3-4 linebacker spot and be effective. Vernon Gholston is our "pass-rusher".
I agree about Paces' versatility. And concerning Gholston, lets hope he doesn't turn out to be the over. That would suck. (crossing fingers) Just thought I'd throw that in there. Reason is is because I was watching NFLN full access and it seems Chris Long at Rams OTA's has hit a roadblock as it were. He was trying his best moves in pass rush and was getting thrown on his keester. I found that interesting. Playing with the big boys now. I do think Gholston will be fine though. He just seems stronger than Long.
Right before the draft, I actually decided I liked Gholston better for us than Long. Sure it sounds like convienient fan bias and i'll admit that Long was considered the better guy on the big board...but I'll explain why i came to prefer Gholston.. For one Long has pretty much peaked physically...what you see is what you get. And what you get is an average NFL body. He has fantastic technique, great intangibles as well as the bloodlines..but no time in the weight room, speed training or anything else is ever gonna help his development. Gholston on the other hand is an absolute physical freak who is just learning how to use his speed...and w/ anymore time in the weight room...could just become the strongest guy in the NFL. The sky is the absolute limit. Secondly and my main point, is that I wasnt sure what position Long fit best at in the 3-4. Sure he could PLAY alot of positions..but which one was he gonna dominate at. w/ his lack of size at 34 DE and lack of quickness at olb..I'm not sure there was one. Gholstons physical attributes along w/ the film of him rushing the passer standing up...make him a much better fit in the 34..b/c he has a position he can truly dominate at(if he develops correctly of course).
Kurt I agree about Ghostons upside. If he catches you the right way your going down. Some of the tape I watched he was just punishing guys. I think he also played against a lot more talented offensive guys than Long did. A la Jake Long. Thats probably the best proof. Dropping in coverage is probably what concerns me but not overly concerned. I still have my fingers crossed.
