OXNARD, California — Throughout the team’s training camp in Southern California, head coach Mike McCarthy and his staff praised the work ethic and talent of the incoming rookie class, and second-round pick Marshawn Kneeland was the best example of that rhetorical statement.
Kneeland was originally described as an “incredibly athletic,” hard-working individual from his time at Western Michigan University. He has carried that mentality over to the NFL – and it’s already evident in his coaches and peers early in his career.
“We always had a day off on our day off,” said Greg Ellis, assistant defensive line coach. “Marshawn called me and asked me to watch some film. It’s like that’s our day off, but I understand. I talked to my wife and told her I needed to have the day off because I had to meet with one of the guys to watch some film. When you have a guy as talented as him who understands it takes more than what (he) did in college, I was happy to see that.”
Kneeland has even caught the attention of star defensive lineman Micah Parsons, who compared the second-round pick’s skills and mentality to an eight-time Pro Bowler with a similar stature and skill set.
“I think he’s going to be a great player,” Parsons said. “I compliment him, I think he’s a young Cam Jordan. I think he has the talent and the ability. He’s so hungry every day, so willing to learn and he’s got that dog inside him. He’s got unteachable qualities.”
“Sometimes newbies come here… and are hesitant. Marshawn came right in and asked questions.”
While Kneeland has gotten off to a quick start in his NFL career and is beginning to earn the respect of the pros, as a rookie, the transition to the professional game still presents struggles and challenges.
“Marshawn has been great in camp,” defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer said. “He’s working really hard on some pass-rush stuff because I don’t think he’s been that efficient at that. Against the run, he’s been great. He’s a worker and I think he’s going to continue to work on that.”
Entering his rookie season, Kneeland was expected to play a big role following the departures of Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr. in free agency. However, with Sam Williams injured, the need for him to step in and contribute only increases.
“If you take away Sam, that’s a lot,” Ellis said. “There’s a lot of opportunity for Marshawn.”
