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Jeff Fisher's Choice O-Lineman?


The Fish is a renegade. He plays by his own rules. He re-wrote the book, probably while drinking scotch. They say he doesn't draft offensive linemen in the first round—that he prefers technique and intelligence over raw physical ability and athleticism. They say he's gone mad...

But despite his heretical views, I see the trend being broken in the upcoming draft.

Enter Alabama's Barrett Jones.

Jones doesn't have the kind of athleticism that traditionally gives a lineman a first round grade, but he has everything else. He was a four year starter at Alabama, playing all five spots extensively during his college career and paving the way for premier running backs Mark Ingram, Trent Richardson, and Eddie Lacy. He projects as an NFL center, but would be a comfortable fit at either guard spot. Jones was a two time All-American, and an academic standout, earning his accounting degree in three years with a 4.0 gpa. Oh yeah, and he's won three national championships.

The guy is a total Jeff Fisher pick. You also have to wonder how long Scott Wells is going to be around. He's 32, and not getting any younger. I think the Packers made the smart choice by letting him go. Barrett Jones would bring versatility from day one, filling in where he is needed and excelling, while at the same time being groomed to replace Wells over the next year or two, perhaps sooner. Wells isn't in our long term plans, so center is as much a need as any along the line. I think this guy impresses a lot of people in the next few months and becomes a strong candidate for one of our first round picks.