GoldenTomb

I think the "right personnel" angle when referring to the 3-4 is misunderstood. Folks are quick to say that it's all about big, bulky linemen and quick agile LBs. Look at our team guys....we are already there. Our team is seriously up there when you talk about defensive players with athleticism. We have capable athletes to spare. That's never been our problem. When experts say it takes the right personnel they are speaking more in terms of a player's instincts and not size. You need LB's with significantly better play recogntion, since running the 3-4 leaves you considerably more vunerable to the run. I think it generally takes smarter and more instinctive players to make the 3-4 work, not necessarily more agile and faster players. I think a player like Courtney Watson would excel in the 3-4, whereas a blazer like Mark Fields probably wouldn't fare so well.

As far as the D-line goes we have the perfect group of guys. We have two talented DEs that need to be respected in pass rushing and run stopping. And if Sully is worth keeping like reports are saying, then that's the perfect 2-gapper that plugs the middle.

The key would be in nabbing up LBs that close in on the play quickly, not due to their athleticism, but because of their play recognition. Hawk, Greenway, or Hodge would be great pickups. Just look at the great 3-4 defenses. All of them have had smart LB's with great instincts.