Wasn't David a state champion high jumper? Or at least competitive at a high level (no pun intended)?
Sometimes coaches project raw athleticism into a position. I recall reading defense was also a consideration. Imagine Njoku adding 10-15 pounds and playing the 'Viper' position.
Golden made a good evaluation on Njoku.
If only he had made a similar choice at safety. Oh wait, he left that to D'Ono.