re: At what point did Mingo become so much more talented than Sam?

Mingo didn't make a jump. He was always considered a top 15 guy the entire season, and he was 1 of the few guys that didn't really move in the process. Plus, his athleticism and measurables are off the charts. Even in the NFL his size and speed is ridiculous/special.

Sam dropped. And some of it was because of his interviews and answers, but I think it's more of how does he fit into a defense? He's better suited for a 4-3 DE, but he isn't the biggest guy to play that spot. And he's not the most athletic guy to play an OLB in the 3-4. He, to me, is the ultimate tweener. His style of play, speed, and amount of athleticism is better for a 4-3 DE, but his size is better suited for a 3-4 OLB. He's an undersized DE, but a slow inexperienced 3-4 OLB.