While the NFL is often referred to as “not for long” to the violent nature of the sport, that phrase has other interpretations. Football is an ever-evolving game in which coaches are constantly trying to one-up the opposition with schematic changes.

One of the recent trends in the NFL is the evolution of the linebacker position. Gone are the days of thumping linebackers that couldn’t cover against the passing game. With offenses throwing the ball more than ever, defenses are adapting to the shift.

Deion Jones, Telvin Smith and Deone Bucannon are rising stars in the NFL at linebacker. Each is under 225 pounds. So it was no surprise when the Philadelphia Eagles selected Nate Gerry in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft and announced the former Nebraska safety would make the transition to linebacker.

Gerry lined up all over the field for the Cornhuskers defense but excelled when he was close to the line of scrimmage. Given his experience both in run support and pass coverage, Gerry’s transition to outside linebacker in the NFL seemed like it’d be a rather easy one.

During his press conference on Thursday, Eagles coach Doug Pederson was asked about Gerry taking on a new position in the NFL.

“Really good. Really good. He’s a smart kid. It’s definitely a different role for him,” Pederson said. “He is comfortable, however, around the line of scrimmage because he’s played down as a safety. Now he’s playing more in the box and there is a lot more happening there from a linebacker’s position.”

Having lined up in multiple places in college, Gerry is well prepared to have a similar role with the Eagles. So far, Gerry looks like he will make the transition naturally, but Pederson knows the true test will come when the pads go on.

“He’s done a good job. He’s a hard worker; he’s smart; he’s instinctive,” Pederson said. “You know, it will be interesting to put the pads on in July and August and see, physically, where he’s at.”