Defensive line coach Jeff Zgonina is direct.
Meeting with the media Friday, Zgonina, was laser- focused, a man of a few words, ready to move to the next question.
Though the defensive line is already beat up, Zgonina didn’t back off.
“Next man up, that’s what it is. That’s why we practice through camp and everything. And we just prepare like we do all the time and we just keep plugging along.”
What about the running of Eagle Jalen Hurts?
“He’s a great talent. Gotta keep him contained.”
How hard is it to be disciplined against an elusive player like Hurts?
What, we’re not supposed to be disciplined? I don’t understand what you’re saying. We have a game plan installed and we’re gonna follow our game plan.”
Regarding tackle Daniel Wise?
“Well, he’s here cause he’s a good football player. I mean, that’s why we have him. We saw something in him. He does good things for us and that’s why he is here.”
What is the key to Daron Payne’s success?
“Daron is an exceptional athlete and a football player. I mean, he’s been building ever since I’ve been here. He’s been building and building and building and now it’s starting to show more. He’s a really good football player.”
“I thought he was doing good things last year. It’s not like he just, all of a sudden appeared. I mean, if you watch tape over the years, he’s been getting better and better. Getting older, getting a better understanding of the game. All his hard work is coming to fruition.”
How has Assistant DL Coach Ryan Kerrigan added to the coaching?
“Ryan brings a whole different set of eyes for me. I was a defensive tackle, he’s a defensive end. I think it’s a good combination we have in the room right now. He sees things differently than I did. I’m learning from him as he’s learning from me for the inside. So, everything’s been real smooth and it’s been a good relationship.”
Regarding DT John Ridgeway:
“I knew quite a bit because he is a rookie. So, we just had the Combine a few months ago and I spent some time with him there in the train station. Got to know him. He’s a big kid. He’s learning behind the rest of the guys. We got a bunch of new guys, but behind the guys that have been here of course. He is picking it up fast. He’s a smart kid, big body. I see him being good for us down the road. The more he learns the faster he’ll play. I’ve known him since the Combine.”
Concerning DE Montez Sweat:
“His play has been outstanding. He doesn’t have the numbers yet, but once he breaks through, I see a landslide. I think he works very hard. He’s a student of the game. He’s able to ask questions that’s how I know he’s studying. I know he’s into it. I mean, he has always been that way. And again, once it clicks, you know, he’ll start rolling.”
“He (Sweat) has not shown any frustration or pressing. He understands he’s doing some good things. He understands that it’s gonna come. He’s not at all and nor are we pressing him.”