Middle Linebacker (MIKE)
It looked like rookie Anthony Hitchens was going to get first dibs at replacing Sean Lee – and he still might at some point – but that’s a whole lot to ask from a rookie 4th round pick.
Justin Durant looks to have the inside position for now. Durant was picked up in free agency last season and locked up one of the outside linebacker spots, but inconsistency and injury derailed Durant from making any kind of impact. Durant’s experience in the defense and speed seem to be giving him the edge as of now.
The guy I thought could end up as the starting middle linebacker, and the guy I think still could, is DeVonte Holloman. Holloman learned the position on the fly and started the last two games of the season. He played really well for a rookie who had never played the position before. Holloman offers more in his overall game than any of the other players vying for the position. But as of right now, the coaches don’t seem to think the same way.
Names to watch: Rolando McClain, Orie Lemon
I know, I know. There’s a chance he could retire again while he’s flying to Oxnard for training camp but let’s just say that Rolando McClain has grown up and has decided football is his calling. What you could end up with is one talented middle linebacker who was a top 10 pick in the draft only a few seasons ago. McClain is a low-risk, high-reward player and it would really benefit both parties if he does stick it out in the NFL.
Hopefully a change to a 4-3 scheme will help Lemon reach his potential. He has the size you want in a middle linebacker and the toughness as well, but his best shot at staying on the team could be on special teams.
