Having the game slow down is a natural part of player progression from Year 1 to Year 2. For one inside linebacker, the process is hopefully complete by Year 3.
That hasn't necessarily been the case for Manti Te'o. The Chargers' second-round pick from 2013 has yet to make it a complete season in the NFL thanks to a pair of foot fractures.
He's been relegated to the sidelines while he attempts to keep a steep learning curve on pace.
And yet, Te'o doesn't seem concerned. In fact, entering his third training camp, he feels better than ever.
"Oh, way faster," Te'o told The Union-Tribune when asked how he's seeing the game. "I can't tell you how much different it is. It feels so comfortable out there, to finally be out there and just play ball."
His progress this year will be crucial considering the fact that rookie inside linebacker Denzel Perryman will also be in the mix. San Diego needed upgrades across the board on defense, but especially in its linebacking corps.
If the game is indeed slowing down for the former Notre Dame star, defensive coordinator John Pagano will have far less to worry about in 2015.
*The latest Around The NFL Podcast features the triumphant return of Dan Hanzus and discusses the biggest mysteries heading into training camp. *
