Best Of

There's a lot of reason to think that Thompson can break out and make a significant impact … physically he's got the tools and it's all about getting the reps and putting it together. There's really no shame in having to transfer out of Iowa as they are notorious for not only having big numbers on their roster at the LOS but they do a fantastic job developing them.

There's really no reason to not look at the options that UW has on the DL this year as being a significant upgrade versus last year. Valdez was a nice player but he had to play way too many snaps because of the lack of depth (which is a big contributor to how bad the rushing numbers was). There was a reason why Bandes really didn't materially see the field until last year … he was the definition of a JAG- at this level. So not only are we looking at better depth but there's also better talent and pedigrees of the guys coming in.

Big question to me is going to be on the outside and whether or not we can get pressure without having to bring the house via the blitz or not. I'm not going to put any kind of material expectations on Durfee until he can actually stay healthy … he's also probably been built up higher than his skill level to be honest. I'm really interested in seeing if Lane can break out as historically I've liked what I've seen of his motor in the limited snaps that he's gotten to date.

It's an interesting group to be sure and there is a path for them to be league average (or better) … if they do that then the path for this team to begin to approach the upper ends of its potential ceiling become much more in play.

I'm optimistic about Thompson and DT overall. I think it's a thing that could surprise and turn into a strength. One thing I like about Thompson specifically is he is more of an athletic type who could be valuable in pass rushing up the middle and I feel like we haven't had a DT like that since Onwuzurike. I wouldn't be surprised if we have single digit sacks from our DTs this decade.

Media is building up a lot of practice heroes this preseason. Don't even know where to start.