You Don't Know Jack

Zeb Coulter & Jack Swagger
Photo courtesy: WWE

By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter

Jack Swagger is back.  (He's been back on WWE TV for a couple of weeks, I'm finally writing about it.)  The former World Heavyweight and U.S. Champion has a new look and a new mindset.  He's even got a new manager, Zeb Coulter.  Longtime fans know Zeb of course is Dutch Mantell, who worked for the WWE years ago as Uncle Zeb and managed the likes of the Blu Brothers and Justin "Hawk" Bradshaw (JBL).

Personally, I love the addition of Zeb to the roster.  I have long believed that the WWE has needed to add more managers.  It's a throwback to the 70's and 80's when managers were a big part of the product.  This is a side tangent, but I'd like to see others join Paul Heyman and Zeb on the outside of the ring.  During the Attitude Era and beyond managers fell by the wayside in the WWE.  I really hope this is a signal of a resurgence.  (crossing my fingers)

Jack Swagger's Patriot Act

Anyway, back to Jack.  He's gone through some changes in appearance and with his character, but I've noticed he still has the same theme music.  I think in order to complete his change, new music is essential.  It won't make or break the character, but I think it'll definitely help convey the message that this is not the same Swagger we've known for years.

I like his aggression and the mean streak that seems to be pushed by the presence of Coulter.  The WWE is taking a page out of real life to develop these characters, as I feel like Swagger and Coulter represent the feelings that many in this country have.  They've just amped it up a bit.

There's no telling where exactly they're heading with this, but his addition to the Elimination Chamber match is hopefully a good sign for this gifted athlete.  The one big obstacle I see with the chamber match Sunday is three men in it are making big returns, (Swagger, Chris Jericho, and Mark Henry) so unfortunately the wind is going to be removed from the sails of at least two of these guys.  While I don't expect Swagger to win the match, I'm hoping he goes in there and has a chance to shine with the other former champs.  He's the youngest in the match and may have the most to prove against the cream of the WWE crop.