LaMarr Woodley is hoping to put concerns about his fitness behind him. He missed nine games over the last two seasons due to injuries, and has had his conditioning questioned by teammates and media. However, Woodley said recently that he has been "getting after it" this offseason, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
LaMarr Woodley ready for Steelers offseason program
After a pair of disappointing, injury-plagued seasons, LaMarr Woodley says he’s ready for the Steelers’ offseason program.
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
“My thing was during the season when I hurt my ankle, I said that I wanted to come back stronger next year,” Woodley said. “Some injuries you can’t predict or avoid, but, during the season, I said this offseason I’d be determined to get after it.”
Woodley had double-digit sacks every season from 2008-10. His nine sacks in 2011 were very respectable considering that he appeared in just ten games. His numbers fell precipitously last year, however. Woodley had just four sacks, his lowest total since his rookie year, after missing three full games and most of two more due to ankle and hamstring injuries.
Assuming he stays healthy, Woodley should start at outside linebacker once again, opposite either Jason Worilds or rookie Jarvis Jones. According to Behind The Steel Curtain, a healthy Woodley and a smooth transition by Jones or Worilds in place of James Harrison should hopefully improve a Steelers pass rush that was mediocre the last two seasons.
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