Purdue Boilermakers defender Danny Ezechukwu has a lot of starts at linebacker under his belt, but this year will see him transition to defensive end, or possibly a defensive end/linebacker hybrid. The Boilermakers have much more depth at linebacker than they do on the defensive line, so Ezechukwu is making the transition to help satisfy team needs.
Beyond the collective good, it’s also of individual benefit because the NFL Draft has trended towards further emphasizing DE/OLB hybrids as prospects.
Edge rushing is edge rushing no matter whether you do it from the second level or in the trenches. If Ezechukwu is to put himself more into the draft conversation and improve his draft stock, then augmenting this specific skill set is critical. In the podium session at B1G Media Day, Ezechukwu discussed all the transition this upcoming season- new head coach, new defensive coordinator, new position for himself.
He also discussed his individual player role models which include Whitney Mercilus and two members of the Oakland Raiders, Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin. Ezechukwu audio is below, for Jeff Brohm audio go to this link. For David Blough go here.
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, partnered with FOX Sports Engage Network and News Now. Banks, a former writer for the Washington Times, NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, currently contributes regularly to WGN CLTV.
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