OXNARD, Calif. — Throughout the team's time at training camp in Southern California, head coach Mike McCarthy and his staff have praised the work ethic and talent from the incoming rookie class, and second-round pick Marshawn Kneeland has been the key example given to that rhetoric point.
Originally described as a “freakishly athletic” hard-working individual from his time at Western Michigan, Kneeland has transferred that mentality to the NFL – and it's showing up in the early stages of his career to his coaches and peers
"On our off day, we had an off day whenever it was," assistant defensive line coach Greg Ellis said. "Marshawn called me and asked to go over some film. It's like, this is our off day, but I get it. I was talking to my wife and I told her I had to get off because I got to go and meet with one of the guys to look over some film. When you have a guy that's as talented as he is and understands that it takes more than what [he] did in college, I was glad to see that."
Kneeland has even caught the attention of star defender Micah Parsons, who compared the second-round pick's skillset and mentality to an eight-time Pro Bowler with a similar frame and skillset.
"I think he's going to be a great player," Parsons said. "I'm giving him comps, I think he's a young Cam Jordan. I think he has the talent and ability. He's just so hungry every day, willing to learn and he has that dog in him. He has unteachable characteristics."
"Sometimes you have rookies that come in here…and are reluctant. Marshawn came in right away asking questions."
While Kneeland has had a quick start to his NFL career and is beginning to earn the respect from those in the building, being a rookie still comes with its battles and challenges in transitioning into the pro game.
"Marshawn's been great in camp," defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer said. "He's working real hard on some of the pass rush stuff, because I don't think he was as efficient in doing that. He's been great against the run. He's a worker and I think he's going to continue to work."
Coming into his rookie season, it was expected for Kneeland to have a big role after the departures of Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr. in free agency. However, with the injury to Sam Williams, that necessity to step in and contribute only elevates.
"You take Sam away, and that's a lot," Ellis said. "There's a lot of opportunity for Marshawn."
