I’m thinking he has a good chance to start next year.
I like his wiring…A LOT!
He’s hyper-aggressive and tackles with great form…and as for his physical stature… Look at the legs. Not only does he have good legs, he has developed good instinct and tackles with his legs. The shoulder is what you make impact with…the LEGS are what you tackle with (arms are just for wrapping up and trying to punch the ball out with).
I think this dude is a really nice contributor, especially considering where he was drafted. High floor player. Floor is a Great backup and ST guy.
Ceiling …who knows? Probably never gonna be Urlacker, but he could be sam Mills
Been watching MRod his whole collegiate career. Every game I always thought, I wish we had a gamer like him on the Lions. And boom, we do now! He has the heart of a Lion!
Agreed Natty! He really was durable at OSU. We all know that does not always translate to the next level, but we do have a player we can and will trust in at the LB spot.
Simply put, he does not over pursue. When a big stop was needed he always seemed to be in on it. He for sure stood out in run support and in coverage. I am truly shocked he lasted on the board as long as he did. I know he isn’t the prototypical size for a LB, nonetheless, we will grow to love this kid!
I love the ferociousness. Controlled aggression, and causes turnovers. “Knowingness” that is far beyond confidence. I feel like he’s gonna make it. Could not have a better locker room guy either. This team is going to be aggressive and relentless. Can’t wait to see these guys go hit some ppl in the mouth
I watched his game against OU in 2018….
when he played safety.
safety. deep safety.
I have high hopes for his ability as a coverage LB.
This picture below shows him in quarters coverage on WR Lee Morris (left circled player in middle of field)… tight coverage.
Ceedee Lamb had a 65 yard punt return in the 2018 game. Malcolm got the tackle… after catching him from behind… all the way across the field and 50 yards downfield. These 2 picks don’t really do it justice… but it is at the 41:30 mark of the video below.
Bolton’s arms are 1.5’ longer than Malcolm’s… and the wingspan is only 3 inches longer.
Same height.
Only 5 pounds difference in weight.
Malcolm has an edge in EVERY athletic category.
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I see Rodriguez as having a lot of upside. Wagner was considered short for a LB. Some of these guys are still growing into their bodies at 20 years old.
Bolton did real well for the Chiefs. He’s another guy that JUST MAKES PLAYS. I was heartbroken that we didn’t take him or JOK instead of Levi last year.
great video., thx!
one thing that this guy mentioned which I haven’t seen elsewhere: he has the ability to make himself a “small target” for offensive linemen. I think this is a very underrated trait for ILB’s, (much like RB’s who can ‘hide’ in the mountains of beef). The more I learn about M-Rod, the more I like him.
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And makes tackle for 2-yard gain.
Notice that the clock shows 6:20 — which means he made the tackle within 3 seconds of the snap – after running 20 yards to the sideline.
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