Is Cliff Avril a better fit as a 3-4 OLB?

WillParks · Joined: 24 Feb 2009 Posts: 391

Cliff Avril is a pretty good 4-3 end in our scheme but I have always felt he is much better suited to be a 3-4 OLB. Here's why:

1. He has good speed closing speed but he has to sort of build up to that. He doesn't seem to be "explosive". Playing from a 3-4 OLB position would allow him a little more space so that he can be a his peak speed when he engages the first blocker.

2. He seems to take himself out of running plays. I think him being in a 3-point stance all the time limits his vision and awareness. If he was able to stand up more it would give him a chance to survey the field a little better in obvious running situation.

3. His physical build and playing style seem to lend itself to the 3-4 OLB position. He weighs about 260Lbs and is strong enough to take on most RTs from a 3-point stance but if he were able to move around more and stand up periodically, I think the combination of his speed and strength would make him a real terror. He reminds me a lot of Shaun Phillips but with slightly more athleticism and speed.

I am not sure how everyone else views Cliff Avril. Do you think this assessment holds water?

nagahide13 · Joined: 25 Apr 2008 Posts: 11062 Location: Stumptown

I have no idea what he's like in coverage. I know people have been saying this for a while because of his body type mainly, and I don't disagree... I just don't know because 3-4 LBs have to do so much more than blitz.
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ahoda · Joined: 02 Feb 2005 Posts: 4430 Location: Northern Virginia

Can he shed blocks?
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USNinc · Joined: 17 Jan 2005 Posts: 1115

Cliff Avril has stated (On his twitter) that rushing the QB from the DE spot is the only way to play.
He was asked about a 3-4 pass rushing spot and he said something to the effect of "Nah Bro".

I doubt he would give it a serious look.