Soupermeister's Breakout Player of 2008 Poll

[SmootSmack]

Originally Posted by SouperMeister

I've given this some thought, and I still feel that Mix can be adequate in the slot, and that we should use the first pick to select a two way DE that can be a force against the run as well as the pass. As for the question of breakout players, Chris Wilson could well be our breakout guy as a situational pass rusher - I would not be a bit surprised if he came away with 5-7 sacks in that role. The sense that I'm getting is that Blache wants us to use our 1st rounder on the best D-lineman on the board (even if it's a DT). I say do that and go for WR in the 2nd round to push Mix for a job in the WR rotation. There are usually very good WRs to be had in round 2, and competition will only make us stronger at our #3 WR position.

As for what would constitute a breakout, I would say 5+ TDs from Mix as a legit red-zone threat and 5+ sacks from Wilson as a 3rd down specialist.

Wilson had four sacks last year so he's right on the verge by your definition. Mix has a much tougher climb.

[SouperMeister]

Originally Posted by SmootSmack

Wilson had four sacks last year so he's right on the verge by your definition. Mix has a much tougher climb.

Agreed - I see Wilson as a Chris Clemons clone (too bad we let him go). Clemens had 8 sacks for Oakland last year and signed with Philly as a FA, so perhaps Wilson will exceed my 5-7 sack target.

For Mix to be an impact in the red zone, he would probably have to get some of the opportunities that would otherwise go to Cooley. This could happen if Cooley draws coverage, but Mix must gain the trust of Campbell. There are probably more factors that must come into play for Mix to have an impact, but I love his size, and he showed very good speed / athletic ability for a big man on special teams.