getting defensive

The year Jared Allen had last year will never be forgotten. This 2012 season will be interesting to watch
 how teams will handle Jared differently if possible. The man has an engine with no low gear or neutral it is full speed ahead 110 percent. It was such a pleasure to be in attendence at the last game against the Bears and watch Jared break the Vikings sack record. In all the low's of 2011 Jared really brought some much needed excitement. Records are made to be broken and I for one believe last year is just the beginning for Jared.

Congrats to Jared Allen for being named the 11th best player in 2011. What an honor and so well deserved by a guy who never quits. Whether single or double team he does not give up.

The defensive line aside from Jared has the potential for young players to come through and contribute immediately. Brian Robison is a great compliment to Jared as he too brings speed on the opposite edge.
I am real eager for two players to see what they can bring to 2012. Christian Ballard, 2011 draft choice along with Everson Griffen are 2 players I really believe are up and comers.

The linebackers with tackling machine Chad Greenway along with Erin Henderson return from last year. Erin is a player who has proved hard work pays off. As undrafted rookie free agent Henderson made it all the way to a starter. Erin has proven he did not get down not being drafted rather his hard work now puts him on the field with the 10 other starers. Erin may be one of the nicest guys on the roster to talk to. The man who has an opportunity of a lifetime and that is Jasper Brinkley. The chance to be the starting middle linebacker is within reach as long as he can stay healthy. I love the play of EJ Henderson but now it is time to see if we have a future long term answer in Brinkley. As for EJ I will always be grateful to watch a man play with so much intensity. The way he threw his body around often made me wonder how bad he had to hurt on Monday mornings. Football is already a violent sport so to see an athlete compete this hard is truly appreciated.

The most interesting position in my opinion to keep an eye on is the defensive secondary. The retirement of Asher Allen and Cedric Griffen leaving via free agency really opens things up. Antoine Winfield I believe this will be his most important year. The chance these young players have to watch one of the best tackling defensive back in the NFL can only be viewed as positive. This group will have it work cut out with the talented NFC North receivers. The term team has a true meaning with this group. They will all learn together.

Like the offense the defense is young and will learn together. The turnover from last years roster really makes competition in Mankato huge. I look forward to watching practices and seeing these guys fight it out. The potential depth with young starters and young backups is exciting.

It is time to move on and forget the last 2 seasons. Youth movement is here and I for one stand behind the organization as I watch a young team develop into a competive squad

Hope to see you in Mankato
Thanks for reading
Purplestick