Which is why he got more gameballs in 2010 than any other player on defense?

Harper is one of our best players on defense, and Gregg Williams agrees.

Originally Posted by alleycat_126
So much so, that I would start the 24th overall pick on game 1 vs letting Scotty Mistackles play another down AS A STARTER. How the hell long is Vilma career gonna last if he gotta play 2 positions, DL to me is now a second round or free agent concern. We need a OLB from the 1st round!!!!!!

YOUR QUOTE!!!!
We could stand to upgrade no doubt, but I don't think he's as bad as so many make him out to be. The coaches certainly don't either, but I'm sure they'd be happy to upgrade that position if possible.

We are saying the same thing, and yes he is the weakest link on the chain, Harper actually does make plays. what was he smokin!!!! Anyways Shanle is always at or around the right spot, but to slow and sometimes even not strong enough to make the play. Frustrating to watch. I wasn't trying to argue whether or not he should or should not be on the team, more than likely he will. I know you get that idea from the title I apologize. It should read Shanle Must Go, Back to the bench. He was much more affective coming in off the bench than starting. It was more about the fact that to me the emphasis of this draft, which is DE heavy should be placed more on that OLB spot than DE.

I'm more interested in a game changing DE than an OLB. I agree that we can use an upgrade out there, but it's not exactly that big of a hole on defense. Shanle by no means is a world beater, but contrary to many... he's a solid football player. Capable starter... quality backup which is where he's better suited at this stage in his career. He does get a lot of unnecessary flack from our fans... he was the best we had. We did also finish the season with a top ranked defense with a "crappy" OLB and average DE in Alex Brown. Honestly if Shanle were to start next year... though not ideal, I think we'll be okay.

GW says ...

I would much rather us get a DE/ DT with the first pick we need a PASS RUSHER !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BAD !

Yep, I'm all for the BPA at DE/DT/LB.

I could live with an offensive player if he's rated significantly higher than anyone else left at pick 24 (RB, OT, WR, TE etc).

Watching Scott Shanle reaching out for the ball carrier and not quite getting there is frustrating as can be. He's always just out of the play. I don't know if it's blown coverage, lack of speed or what but he just doesn't seem to get to the action on time. We do have LBers that were on IR last year that should help.

Shock Post... Watch it... are you trying to insight a riot?

isnt casillas suppose to have jets?? I mean, shanle biggest problem is his lack of speed..

I would have kept Scott Fujita and released Scott Shanle he has been the week link since he's been with Saints; Do I foresee a Shanle must go thread