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The New Orleans Saints move to switch to a 3-4 defense for the 2013 season could form the perfect storm for third-year veteran Martez Wilson.

The 2012 campaign finished in a disaster for the Saints on defense. The unit set an NFL all-time high mark by allowing the most yards (7,042) in a single season. The aftershocks of that poor showing led the dismissal of first-year defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.

The demands on the defensive unit were extensive for each player, individually and collectively, to coordinate with multiple responsibilities while counteracting multiple offensive formations. Many variables that the opposing offense demonstrated required numerous checks and adjustments. All had to be synchronized by the defense immediately. A large share of the responsibility in the Spagnuolo system last season was thrust upon the free agent middle linebacker Curtis Lofton, who had to make all the master checks and had to know where everyone was lining up.

Another younger player was facing a steep learning curve for multiple reasons.

A third round draft pick in 2011, Wilson has lined up in different roles the past two seasons, initially at linebacker (2011) and then at defensive end (2012). "At first I liked being at defensive end, permanently I did not," Martez explained. "I had to re-learn the four-point stance. At first I was just rushing. It was all a learning experience."

Understanding his role and responsibility has been a challenge, but Wilson is used to learning how to play new roles on the field. "I've played all (defensive line) positions: end, standup tackle, one-tech (NT), three-tech (DT). I can drop from middle or weakside linebacker. There are a lot of 3-tech and 5-tech relationships, but I like to stand up and see. Even in high school as a defensive lineman, I stood up so that I could read and react."


Read more: Martez Wilson ready for breakout season in Saints new 3-4 scheme

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