Defensive captain Will Smith, for example, will begin work at outside linebacker, rather than the defensive end spot at which he has played his whole career.

''That's where we'll start him,'' Payton said, noting that outside linebackers often play pass-rushing roles in a 3-4 scheme. ''We can play him right and left, but I think initially that right outside position would be very similar to what he's played for us in the past.''

Payton said he envisions veteran Jonathan Vilma as one of the two middle linebackers in the new scheme.

''There's just got to be some flexibility when it comes to the transition,'' Payton said. ''There'll be a few players that will learn more than one spot.''
Smith said he'll have to get used to starting plays in an upright stance, whereas before he crouched down with a hand on the turf. But beyond that, he said learning the new position is ''not that bad.''

''I may have a couple (pass) coverage responsibilities, but for the most part I'm just rushing (the passer) and playing the run,'' Smith said.