Getty Images
Arik Armstead is in an optimal position entering his first year as a rookie in the NFL. Drafted in the first round by the San Francisco 49ers, Armstead entered a team that has suffered many injuries and retirements, leaving him an unusually high chance at become a Week 1 starter.
Granted Darnell Dockett, picked up in free agency during the offseason, is a likely lock at left defensive end, Armstead still has a strong case for starting. Head coach Jim Tomsula has been very vocal about the fact that his defensive line has been cross training, meaning that the players are learning to be versatile and are learning each position on the line.
In order for Armstead to claim one of those positions, he will need to step up in training camp. Armstead and the coaching staff should zero in on his reaction times and his awareness of what’s happening around him. If Armstead can address the concerns and weaknesses that he entered the draft with, he will be sitting pretty.
One of the major issues with Armstead during his college career was that he would often be so tuned to the man lining up opposite him that he would miss the running back whizzing past him for huge gains. If coaching staff and Armstead could create some drills to work on this important issue, he could become a defensive weapon for the 49ers early on.
Armstead has made it clear that he is aware of the 49ers’ expectations of him. In an interview with Sirius XM NFL Radio, he elaborated on his understanding of what his responsibilities were saying this:
“You have 3-4 weeks to get ready for camp. There’s a lot of expectations and a lot of things my team is going to need from me. There’s no down time. You have to get your body and mind right for camp and try to have an impact.”
While he seems mentally prepared for training camp, we will have to wait to see what type of a physical impact he makes. Learning the 3-4-scheme and being physical against the opposing offensive line will be critical to management’s decisions regarding his future with the team.
Armstead is primed for greatness. If he can capitalize on these opportunities, the 49ers might not be in as much trouble as they’re projected to be.
Kelsey Kay is a San Francisco 49ers analyst for Rant Sports. Follow her on Twitter @kelseyykayyy, “Like” her on Facebook or add her to your network on Google.
