Quote from: uconnjack8 on Today at 07:28:33 AMStill, the 2006 squad had 2md round pick, 3rd that was signed from another team and a 5th along with two UDGAs. The current squad has two high #1s and a 2nd. Is the CBA why 2 of those high picks haven't developed? Were all the other teams in the NFL able to develop UDFAs and late picks as well in 2006.
I can't answer with certainty, but I think there is a good chance the answer is yes. You listen to any linemen or coach talk about practice and the offensive line, and they always talk about the only time it really helps is when the pads go one (which is quite rare now). Prior to 2011, if an offensive lineman struggled, they would get extra practice (with pads) after the regular practice. That simply isn't allowed anymore. As I said, there is a chronic shortage of quality linemen these days. That's because the guys don't have a chance to develop into NFL-caliber linemen. There is only so much an offensive linemen can develop blocking against air or in padless practices.