The Browns’ linebackers coach took charge of the linebacker group drills at…
During the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, the Browns’ linebackers coach, Jason Tarver, took charge of the linebacker group drills at Lucas Oil Stadium. Beyond merely running the prospects through exercises, it served as a unique opportunity for Tarver to closely observe each player.
The combine is a rare occasion where all prospects are assembled, allowing Tarver to learn about their individual traits and competitive spirit. It’s a chance to make connections, knowing that these prospects could become free agents or cross paths in the future.
Tarver emphasizes to players not to overthink or memorize drills but to react naturally, promoting genuine movements for linebackers. The goal is to showcase lateral movements, maintaining balanced positions, crucial for linebackers tracking the ball, diagnosing plays, and swiftly changing directions.
Through well-planned drills, Tarver and his team aim to exhibit the players’ agility, lateral movement, and reactionary skills. The drills simulate in-game scenarios, emphasizing the movements required for success in the linebacker position, such as shuffling sideways, quick direction changes, and finishing actions like catching or scooping a fumble.
The set of drills during the combine included some planned by Tarver’s former colleagues from his time with the 49ers. Collaborating on ideas and developing a plan, they focused on displaying the skill sets of the linebacker prospects through consistent movements.
Tarver, having attended 23 NFL Scouting Combines, finds the experience rewarding, emphasizing that being actively involved is more enjoyable than mere observation. He sees it as an opportunity to contribute to a player’s development, even if only in a brief encounter on the field.
Having transitioned from coaching offense to defense early in his career, Tarver brings a wealth of knowledge to the Browns. His coaching journey includes stints with various NFL and college teams, emphasizing the importance of helping players improve and building cohesive, winning teams.
Tarver reflects on his coaching role, expressing gratitude and highlighting the coach’s mission in the NFL – helping individuals get better and collectively building a winning team. His dedication is evident in his desire to contribute to each player’s development, fostering improvement one player at a time.
