The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Dear Editor,
It was somewhat surprising with the Rams having the best running back in football (Marshall Faulk), to choose the best collegiate running back (Steven Jackson, Oregon State) as their first draft choice.
Whereas, the Bears picked for need (Defensive tackle), the Rams took the best athlete available.
In my opinion, instead of letting Jackson pick up splinters sitting on the bench, he should be allowed to pick up experience right away playing on the field.
This would involve both running backs in the same backfield, with Gordon available to substitute to either.
They are both effective blockers and pass receivers, as well as being outstanding ball carriers.
Although Jackson lacks blazing speed, he is a big bruising runner.
In recent years, if it was a running play, everyone watching knew that Faulk would carry the ball.
Now they have a definite dual running threat, which would definitely keep opponents off balance.
Of course, the biggest advantage would be in extending Faulk's career, since he is 31 years old.
Jackson would be ready when it comes time to replace Faulk at the end of his career.
The Rams second pick in the draft made a lot of sense (Defensive End Hargrove, Georgia Tech), they not only lost DE Wistrom through free agency but will also likely lose their other starting DE (pro bowl player Leonard Little) because of his battle with the bottle.
Little, who pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in a 1998 accident that killed a St. Louis woman, was recently charged with a felony for repeating drunken driving and speeding.
Thus, he will probably not play this season (and rightfully so, when booze becomes more important than the team).
Faulk has also had his problems with domestic abuse.
Hopefully, the Rams picked good character people in the draft. With Kurt Warner likely to be gone, that is a big factor which needs to be considered.
Many people see athletes as spoiled, overpaid individuals who think they are God's greatest gifts.
However, many are like Warner and want to make positive contributions to the world.
They put their time and money into many worthwhile community projects.
A true hero is Pat Tillman of the Phoenix Cardinals, who recently gave his life for his country, rather than receiving millions for playing pro football.
Just as schools should emphasize academics and citizenship first and extra curricular activities second, sports should also be about developing good human beings, dedicated citizens, and positive role models for kids.
Weyman George
Macomb