Jared Odrick: Underrated.

[So Be]

If you knew what you were talking about you'd be aware that the responsibility of a 5 technique (the technique associated with a 3-4 DE) is to be responsible for two gaps... which actually makes it harder for them to rush the passer, not easier. Wilkerson makes most of his plays on the quarterback when he's single gapping in a four man front (sometimes they go to a 4-3 over or under -- which looks like a five man front -- depending on the situation, but it's still one gapping), since that's what the Jets shift to most often in passing situations.

There are about a million online resources for you to read about the responsibilities and techniques of the various fronts and positions. Feel free to avail yourself of one of them.

I'm no expert but, do understand the different techniques and gap responsibilities. I am not disputing that the players you mention are better than Odrick, just saying they play different positions and labeled as such by the NFL. In today's game, the 3-4 DE's do move to DT on maybe 40% of their snaps (just guessing), and DT's stay put. That is a difference.

The DE's do go up vs OT's a lot over the course of the year, sometimes a good thing, sometimes a bad thing, and do get more pass rush chances. Another difference.

IMO, Odrick did not play well at all at DE but, has played very well at DT.

We could use Graham as a positional example. He played 67% outside or in the slot but, according to the NFL, his position is TE and not WR.

 

[SF Dolphin Fan]

I wouldn't call him a bust, both he and Misi are important role players, but I've said a million times I still wish we had grabbed Earl Thomas and I was disappointed as soon as I heard we traded down...Odrick isn't a bust, he's a solid starter who steps up when he is called upon and is still developing so while I doubt he will ever have the caliber career as Thomas, he's playing well and getting better every season IMO.

That is so true. I was mad at the trade down at the time and still would trade both Odrick and Misi for Thomas. I just don't think Ireland could spot elite talent.

That said, I do appreciate Odrick. He is a good player.

 

[GreenMts]

He's a number one who is nearly a 2nd rounder. I think is was an average pick for that position. Saying he's a bust is about as valid as saying he's success at this point.