Eric Westmoreland fits a distinct need at weakside linebacker, especially if the Jaguars trade linebacker Kevin Hardy, with whom they have been unable to negotiate a new contract.
Westmoreland was described by Tom Coughlin as a "run and hit" guy who is not necessarily "undersized, by today's standards."
Need was clearly on Coughlin's mind when he selected Westmoreland. He will be groomed to be the Jaguars' weakside linebacker of the future, which could become the present if the Jaguars deal Hardy. Westmoreland, a speedy, Dexter Coakley-type linebacker, is also seen as a special teams prospect.
