Lock Or backrow

Question
I'm 18, Im 6'4" so I've been playing lock for my college club. The problem is I'm only 170ish pounds. I lift weights alot and eat, but at this point in my life i have trouble gaining weight. I'm not sure if Im still growing taller. I'm also fast so I feel Id be more use in the back row. Should I make the switch? I can handle the scrummaging fine, but would I be more useful in the back row?

Answer
At 18 I had the same issue, in fact so did most of my peers. I was about 5'9" and could not break 180 pounds.

By 21 I was 250 pounds and working to control that! Now I have settled in to a little over weight 233 pounds.

At 18 weight does not come easily that is just life.


I suggest this: without giving away too much compare your speed, ball skills, tackling and general game intelligence against the guys who are currently playing flanker / #8. If you feel honestly that you are better in every aspect go for it especially with regards to speed and ball skills.

Better to be a great lock that a mediocre flanker, especially if you want a lot of game time.

It is your choice at the end of the day.