Buffalo Bills have answer at inside linebacker with Reggie Ragland
Though first round draft pick Shaq Lawson will be out for at least four-to-six months following surgery on his shoulder, Buffalo Bills’ fans have another rookie to look forward too seeing this season. Former Alabama inside linebacker Reggie Ragland.
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Drafted in the second round of the NFL Draft, Ragland comes to the Buffalo Bills with first round talent. Falling into the second round, the Bills were able to add a second playmaker and immediate defensive starter during the draft with the selection of Ragland.
Playing much like the linebackers of a by-gone era, Ragland can do almost anything from the linebacker position. Falling into coverage, Ragland is extremely comfortable stepping back into coverage and should succeed against a majority of tight ends and slot receivers on passes over the middle of the field.
Ragland is also an amazing tackler when it comes to bringing down the ball carrier. A heat seeking missile, expect Ragland to play nearly as much in the opponents backfield as he does on his own side of the line. A day one starter as well, Ragland will give the Buffalo Bills a top player to build around in their linebacking corps.
READ MORE: Taking a look at the Bills secondary
As for rookie linebackers playing with the Bills, we don’t have to look far back to see an early career success story. Kiko Alonso — while plagued by injuries the last two seasons — was a bonafided stud during his rookie season with the Bills, eventually winning the league’s defensive rookie of the year award.
As far as how that relates to Reggie Ragland, it almost certainly doesn’t. However, this past track record should instill some confidence into fans of the Bills. As far as Ragland’s football and mental IQ goes… you can’t… teach… that!
For those wondering, yes I do watch Monday Night Raw. However, my confidence in the ability of Reggie Ragland far exceeds that of the WWE. While Buffalo Bills’ fans will see him as a good guy and away fans will see him as a bad guy, just know, he is — likely — the guy in the Buffalo Bills linebacking corps.
If Ragland manages to play and perform at his potential this season, it will be a new day — yes it is — and a new beginning for the Buffalo Bills defense under head coach Rex Ryan.
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