New Orleans Saints Forums - blackandgold.com - Saints Sign LB Gerald Hodges

[I]Top 10 linebackers set to hit free agency

3. Gerald Hodges, San Francisco 49ers (82.4)

Acquired by the 49ers in a trade with the Vikings, Hodges struggled in his first year with the new team but took a big step in 2016. Hodges has graded well in run defense in his career and has posted solid grades the past two seasons rushing the passer when asked to do so. The concern for the former Penn State Nittany Lion are his inconsistencies in coverage, which will limit his ceiling. While he showed improvement in that area — yielding a career low 87.3 passer rating when targeted — he was also targeted a career-low 24 times in 2016 while still allowing 2 touchdowns.[/I]
https://www.profootballfocus.com/new...it-free-agency

Which is kind of weird

Bottom Line
Hodges is a converted safety who is growing into a NFL starting Sam linebacker’s frame -– but he still has the movement skills to bring down ball carriers in space. Hodges most impressive trait is his ability to cover, however. He needs to improve at disengaging from blocks, but his coverage skills will likely see him selected on the second day.

Then there is this

With the 49ers, Hodges became a solid starter. In just over a season and a half with the team, Hodges recorded 129 total tackles and became a strong contributor for them. In 2016, he was considered to be the 49ers best run stopper but was left on the bench for four games thereby reducing his stats considerably. Still, Hodges started 12 games and posted career highs with three sacks and two interceptions.
https://riggosrag.com/2017/03/18/red...ior-nfl-draft/

God I love media scout

Saints signed LB Gerald Hodges.
Hodges, 26, spent the summer with the Bills but was let go ahead of Week 1 when Buffalo claimed some players off waivers. A stout run defender, Hodges could slide right in to replace Alex Anzalone following shoulder surgery.
Gerald Hodges - New Orleans Saints - 2017 Player Profile - Rotoworld.com

My view point

I see him as yet another solid versatile veteran signing like Kliein, Robertson and Stupar. Another LB with the skills to possible be a solid starter but has never really been given the chance to really develop his game. At worse a great rotational player. I am liking the way the LB corp is shaping up with quality youthful talent. Jump in an replace Robertson? That might be a reach.

Te'o does not make the list because he is starter talent day 1 but needs to stay healthy. Even then I would not put him the hidden gem group.

Two thumbs up the saints may have yet another LB steal, Shayne Skov stay maybe really short

Woodrow Hamilton and Gerald Hodges are two quality moves IMO :bng: