Steelers Release Larry Foote
Tim Ruskell loves winners, but it's hard to see how Foote fits in Seattle. The importance of Foote becoming a free agent is twofold. Foote dilutes the demand for an inside linebacker. Leroy Hill played inside linebacker in college and could convert back for the right price. It also, should Foote be signed first, establishes a contract expectation for Hill. Seahawks fans may disagree, but I doubt the league sees much that separates Foote from Hill. Foote is about two years older, but more durable, a natural 3-4 linebacker, has some kind of cover ability and is from a team that's prestige may inflate Foote's value.
almost 3 years ago
John Morgan
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I've seen where he's likely to sign (and start) in Detroit.
Just speculation at this point, though. One link here:
http://www.freep.com/article/20090428/SPORTS01/90428065/1049/rss14
actually, what I read earlier was this, but there is no source listed.
I hate that.
The quote is “Steelers released ILB Larry Foote.
Pittsburgh will use the $2.885 million it saved with this move to sign its rookie class. Foote, 29, is a Michigan native and is expected to sign with the Lions. Detroit passed on middle linebackers in the draft, taking only Wisconsin OLB DeAndre Levy. Foote wouldn’t have any trouble starting there.”
How would Hill be able to transition to a 3-4 linebacker?
With a lot of the league moving to 3-4, does his skill set fit that of an ILB? I was just wondering, because if he doesn’t fit well, that would eliminate a lot of the demand for him.
by SeaTownBlueDevil on Apr 28, 2009 1:00 PM PDT reply actions
Zone coverage requirements
are what puts a strain on it. He’s not strong in coverage. Pass rush skills somewhat unused as an ILB. Very good 4-3 blitz skills would figure to translate to just good pass rush skills on the edge as an OLB.
Not out of the question, though. I think he could rush the passer as well as Mike Vrabel, and that’s pretty good. Not every 3-4 OLB is DeMarcus Ware.
by jacobstevens on Apr 28, 2009 1:10 PM PDT up reply actions
Nice, the market for Hill is further diluted.
He is gonna be paying us to play here soon.
by michaelfox99 on Apr 28, 2009 1:22 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
My money is on him signing in Kansas City
They’re trying to convert a rag-tag fleet of (supposed) 4-3 players to the 3-4. They’ve got lots of money and plenty of need for an experienced 3-4 linebacker.
John... great editorial here.
Pragmatic as usual.
Larry Foote is Leroy Hill. At nearly the same size dimensions (6-1 238), and same skill sets, these two guys are nearly interchangeable. Larry Foote is tough as nails and doesn’t come with a bag of dirty laundry.
Not a likely fit because of geographical proximity to Foote’s hometown near detroit, but a player I would relish to pick up.
Bring Your Game, Leave Your Name.
It would be hard to overlook his Steeler stink.
It's great to be a Florida Gator!
by Wayward Llama on Apr 29, 2009 10:35 PM PDT up reply actions
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