Falcons to move Vic Beasley to strongside linebacker

The Atlanta Falcons are moving 2015 first-round pick Vic Beasley to strongside linebacker.

The move comes as the Falcons try to best utilize the hybrid talents of Beasley as a pass-rusher and in coverage.

After breaking the Falcons' rookie sack record in 2015, the Clemson product is ready to make the transition to a new position in his second season.

"I just know that it's a new position," Beasley said, according to D. Orland Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal Constitution. "I played a little bit of linebacker in college, but it's different in the league. There are more responsibilities, but I'm off to a great start with it."

The decision to switch up Beasley's responsibilities likely comes from his struggles against the run as a rookie, a fate that was predicted prior to the draft because of his relatively small bulk for a 4-3 defensive end.

Now, with the help of a coterie of experienced position coaches, Beasley is moving to a role that perfectly suits his size and abilities.

"I've been working with a number of coaches so far this year," Beasley said. "Coach (Richard) Smith, (linebackers) coach (Jeff) Ulbrich since I've been playing (strongside) now, and (defensive line) coach (Bryan) Cox. They have been helping me a whole lot and just having all of their different opinions and strategies is helping me a lot."

"I think I'll do great," Beasley continued. "I have great versatility and athletic ability that God's blessed me with. I also played it a little bit in college so that adds and should help."