Bob Lurtsema: Minnesota Vikings rookie linebacker Gerald Hodges is a ‘sleeper’
By Nam Huynh
Nov 17, 2012; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Gerald Hodges (6) attempts to make a tackle on Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Nick Stoner (14) during the fourth quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Indiana 45-22. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Despite being a fourth-round selection in the 2013 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings, former Penn St. linebacker Gerald Hodges is getting a lot of attention from fans and media.
Former Vikings’ defensive lineman Bob Lurtsema, founder of VikingUpdate.com, describes Hodges as “the one to watch” and a “sleeper,” according to ShamaSportsHeadliners.com. Lurtsema says he likes the field awareness and speed of Hodges.
There is a realistic chance that Hodges opens the 2013 season as a starting outside linebacker, with Erin Henderson moving to middle linebacker.
The Vikings already told Hodges that they expect him to have an impact right away and team director of college scouting Scott Studwell recently said that Hodges projects as an outside linebacker for the team.