Any news on Hercules Mata'afa?

[NorthernCalVike]

Thinking he's going to be a very good player once he can finally hit the field this season. Sucks he got injured in June last year. I think he will have a nice impact on our D linebacking corps this year. Plus he's got a great name.

Anyways, looking forward to seeing him this year. Anyone hear any news about him lately?  

[Guest]

I've not heard anything, even here in Hawaii, where he is from.

[Guest]

Guess we'll have to wait until the real camp starts in July to hear much. Just think his motor is non stop, and he will be a very versatile piece for Zimmer to use. Guy is lightening quick and a nose for the QB. Got a great feeling about his 2019 campaign, and the Vikes will benefit greatly!@Ponifan said:

I've not heard anything, even here in Hawaii, where he is from.

[Guest]

I thought the move to LB failed and they were looking at him more as a pass rush specialist from a DE or DT position?

[Guest]

Yeah, I can't see him at LB, inside or outside, just not fast enough.  He either makes it as a pass rusher or he will be out of the league.  He doesn't have the size you want, but he has the instincts and the initial moves to break into the backfield.  Can't really coach that, and yet, he's got it.

[Guest]

I was just wondering about him too.  Having lived in Hawaii and always rooting for the local guys, now living in WA and married into a WSU Coug family, I'm definitely rooting for him. 

But did the LB experiment fail before he got hurt?  I'm not so sure.  I would be surprised to see him do well at LB but we definitely need some competition at the WLB spot.  I agree with above, he most likely needs to be a pass rush specialist, and he would most likely play special teams, so who knows...  

[Guest]

What a great name... He’s listed as a DE at 6’2 254, wish him luck!

[Guest]

I guess DE then - watched film and used to having his hand in the dirt. I think he pushes as a pass rushing specialist in specific packages. It will be interesting to see how they use him in preseason since we never got the chance last year. I think Zimmer wanted him for a reason. Hopefully he makes it hard for Zimmer to keep him off the field. Hard to find guys who have his kind of natural instincts and quickness and motor.

[Guest]

I could see him in a 3rd package, standing up like B Rob used to...but there is so much physical talent on the DL he's going to be hard pressed for a PS spot...Watts didn't test well, but was productive his one year as a starter at Arky...I think he could surprise under coach Dre...

[Guest]

I think Spielman mentioned at the combine that they were looking forward to having him back. Hercules posted on Twitter in Feb. he was cleared to go.