Did you think I didn't know that SAM was referenced in the article? I'm the one who read it and the copy and pasted the parts I wanted. Barnett was only a consideration for SAM last season when Hawk arrived. Why?
It was because we essentially had 3 capable MLBs from a size/skill standpoint in Hodge, Barnett and Hawk. And, GB was exploring ways to get all three on the field. When Poppinga showed promised at SAM, Barnett and Hawk went to their more natural position (which was probably for the best).
Teams tinker all the time in the offseason but we ended up with the right mix for the season.
Barnett had previously been thought of to move to Will for all his previous years...yes DUE TO SIZE
Exactly. Barnett is a very versatile LB and if we had two bigger guys, there was some though to moving him to WLB earlier in his career because of fears he was too small to hold up at MLB. However, once Barnett began to progress at the MLB spot (esp in 05), that idea didn't make as much sense and he showed he could do well there.
Why would you consider moving Barnett to a different position if he was so frickin productive at Mike?
I'll put it this way. You have 3 OL - a very good center who can play guard, a good center and an average guard. Now, the first guy may be the best center, but if you start him you end up with an average guard next to him. If, instead, you start the good center and move the first guy to guard, you end up with a better OL (even though the second best center is starting).
You want to get the three best LBs on the field if possible. If that means moving a versatile guy like Barnett to do so, then you have to think about it.
+++++IMPORTANT++++++ Before anyone comes here and says why would they move Barnett to SAM then, you were saying WILL. Barnett was always talked about being moved to Will BEFORE Hawk's arrival. Hawk has the greater skill set/athleticism therefore Hawk was slated to be in the PLAYMAKING POSITION because of his gifts being greater than Barnett's. The ONLY time Barnett was talked about being moved to Sam was AFTER HAWK CAME. Barnett was our biggest playmaker and they wanted him to be more of one at WIL. Now, Hawk is the one thought best equipped to be the playmaker and that is why he is the WIL. It is NOT to be less productive than the Mike.
Now, you are arguing with yourself. I think I will just let you continue to do so.