Gooden working as starter

Tavares Gooden lined up with the first-team defense next to Lewis at inside linebacker and displayed outstanding mobility after missing the majority of last season as he underwent hip flexor and sports hernia surgeries. "Tavares looked fast," Harbaugh said. "To me, he looked like a linebacker. He was really patient, stayed square, played downhill, stayed on the backside of the play. It wasn't just running around like crazy. He played fast as a linebacker, which is good to see."

Gooden is replacing Bart Scott, who signed a deal with the Jets. Gooden is a strong athlete with solid range and speed, and could be a nice sleeper for IDP leagues if he wins the starting gig at inside linebacker in training camp.

(carrollcountytimes.com)