Edge players need great technique in D as they often have players coming at them who have had room to wind up or multiple attackers as part of set plays or block plays with decoy runners etc. They also often don’t have as much support in D and need to effect solid 1on1 tackles. They need foot speed, strength, good footy IQ, tackle skills, communication skills, focus and plenty of intent in collision. They need the desire to attack with their D for 80 mins.
The really good centres are very difficult to get past.
Ultimately as much as many of the above required skills can be trained and coached, some are purely genetic and if you don’t possess them, you’re never going to be the full package.
