He can now be called the anti-Albert Haynesworth. Change came Artis Hicks‘ way and his reaction? Go fishing and rave about the move. Before Hicks ventured out to catch some catfish in Tennessee, he praised the acquisition of Pro Bowl tackle Jammal Brown — even if it means he’ll no longer start at right tackle. Of course, it likely means he’ll now start at right guard, with Mike Williams probably headed for the bench.
At least that’s how it would appear when training camp starts six weeks from now. Hicks said he was told by line coach Chris Foerster that he would play right guard and that Brown would play right tackle.
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“It’s a great move, man,” Hicks said. “The tackle situation will be shored up now… It’s the best situation for the team, coming from last year you have to do everything you can to upgrade the roster at every spot. That’s a definite upgrade at right tackle.”
Hicks started two games at right guard for Minnesota last season and started 13 games at that position in 2004 with Philadelphia. It helps that he’ll stay on the right side so he can at least line up the same way — right hand down, right foot back.
“But it’s the nuances of guard, learning the proper steps to take,” Hicks said. “I have a general idea, but it’s still different because I haven’t done it all spring.”
And, unlike Haynesworth, change does not bother Hicks.
“That’s why they call it professional football,” Hicks said. “You have to be willing at the drop of a hat… you might have to move over and try something new. Lucky for me it’s not new, just a new system. I’m glad to have that guy as part of our offensive line. I know what he brings and I’m happy about it. I couldn’t be happier.”
Hicks has studied Brown for several seasons.
“The thing I’m most impressed with was his technique,” Hicks said. “He has great athleticism and he can get out in space and move with those defensive ends. I used to watch his footwork and his hand placement a lot of times. … We’re back to learning again. That’s the thing I love about this game; once you think you’ve got it, you have to learn something else.”
