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Here's a blurb from the Ty Dunne article on TyRon Hopper. Its definitely worth a read if you like learning. The Smith quoted in this article is former Packers LB DJ Smith who is now a coach

https://www.golongtd.com/p/he-is-a-dude-why-tyron-hopper-is

"Hopper blossomed into an NFL prospect. His athleticism was always a cut above. Before he was a collegiate linebacker, Hopper was a cornerback and safety in high school. Smith cites a play in practice where Hopper burst through the line on a jailbreak screen — past the quarterback — and managed to hit the brakes, reverse course and chase down the running back for a three-yard gain. “It was unbelievable,” he says. On gameday, there were countless moments that made his jaw drop. Hopper highlights fill the tape Smith shows potential recruits.

In 23 games at Mizzou, Hopper had 133 tackles (20 for loss) with 5.5 sacks, eight pass breakups, one interception and one forced fumble. A finalist for the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker, he earned second team All-SEC honors."


“If he stays on the right track,” Smith says, “he’s going to be special."

“He’s a frickin’ corner,” begins Smith, citing Hopper’s roots. *“He’s got man coverage, corner skills.* He got good feet, good hands. He’s strong. Plays with great pad level, good change of direction, has the IQ and has the want-to. He’s just got to get his opportunity. When he gets his opportunity? Like I told him one time, ‘You’ve got to be ready to go.’ Even if you got one leg, but they call you out, you’ve got to be ready to go.”

Last season did not go according to plan. Clearly there’s been a learning curve for the third-rounder. But there’s another reason you didn’t see much of him. The absolute last thing Hopper wants to do is cite an injury as an excuse — he refuses to discuss it, period — but the reality of 2024 is acknowledged by both Smith and his uncle. He hurt his ankle in the summer and could never quite shake the injury.

Now, he’s fully healthy and has a fresh shot to be himself.

Hafley wants ILBs who can handle coverage- that gives him immense flexibility in mixing personnel groupings. McDuffie is limited, but super smart and cheap. The rest of the ILBs can run like the wind and that's what Hafley is after.
Bisaccia too