How has Shaq Thompson’s experience in the league helped the team so far?
Shaq's experience has been invaluable to our team, especially with the young talent we're nurturing. His understanding of the game, leadership on and off the field, and ability to read opponents' offenses have been crucial. He's a mentor to the younger players, and his presence elevates the performance of our defense as a whole. His experience brings a level of stability and confidence that you can't easily replicate.
What is the status of Ryan Watts and when is he set to return?
Ryan is progressing well in his recovery. We're excited about the potential he brings to our defense, but we're also committed to ensuring he's fully healthy before getting back on the field. He's healing up faster than expected, which is great news. We're looking at a timeline of about 6 weeks until he can return, in line with the league's injured reserve designation rules. His return will definitely bolster our secondary.
Did you scout Smael Mondon Jr before the draft? If so, what stood out about him?
Yes, we did scout Smael Mondon Jr. along with a number of other linebackers. What stood out about him was his athleticism and his instinctual play. He has a great ability to read the play and react quickly, which is key for a linebacker. However, during the draft, we had to prioritize other positions of need, which is often the challenge in building a well-rounded team. It's clear from his performance that he's a talented player, and he'll be someone we'll have to prepare for in future matchups.
