Panthers Taking it Slow with Rookie Linebacker

June 7, 2007

The Gaston Gazette is reporting that first round draft pick John Beason may be asked to play inside linebacker if Dan Morgan were to sustain another injury at any point.  The problem here is the difficulty many players have transitioning into the NFL their rookie season, especially when they are asked to play and produce from day one.  Throw in an attempt to teach them an extra position, and you are really playing with fire and running the risk of completely destroying their rookie year.

In an effort to not blow up Beason’s first season, the Panthers are doing all they can to bring him along slowly.  Beason is an amazing talent at inside linebacker, but learning new formations and your place within them can be overwhelming enough for a young man.  Add to that the new found pressure of the NFL, and you’ve got a full plate to worry about.  Though Beason is certainly capable of learning another position, the Panthers should certainly make sure he is ready, or they run the risk of overloading their top draft pick.

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