blackangold

We are running a 43. As soon as Allen took over we never ran a 34 set. Also Allen has always run 43 sets in his previous roles.

Danno

Yes, we are a 4-3 team, because our talent is better suited for a 4-3.

jeanpierre

I'd agree that we're running a 4-3 because of Allen...

Hau'oli Kikaha is a clear 3-4 OLB and was lost once Allen took over...

John Jenkins was a big 3-4 NT that we spent two draft picks to get...

Jenkins was asked to lose weight last pre-season and be a 3-tech Tackle - bad, bad idea...

Cam Jordan's size and abilities allow him to play in either a 3-4 or 4-3...

Stephone Anthony can play in both sets, but was projected to be a standout 3-4 ILB...

Davis Tull was scouted best as a 3-4 OLB, Jack Linebacker...

Tyeler Davison was projected as a Nose Tackle or a run stopping 3-4 DE...

Now, the last group of UDRFA clearly were better suited to a 4-3, and also added to Rob Ryan's exit and Allen's installment...

But I don't agree necessarily that our talent is better suited 4-3...

In Fact, I'd argue it's a mistake putting Allen in charge now because we had clearly acquired personnel to transition to a 3-4; Sean Payton was on record as saying so...

Our problems on defense will continue as we flip-flop on our defensive identity...

I'm not overly optimistic spending high draft choices on defense with Allen in charge running a 4-3 defense with best talent best suited to a 3-4 ...

It's not that my way is the right way, I just make the right way my way...

hagan714

Tyeler Davison is a poor mans Sheldon Rankins Just needs time to develop. Tyeler Davison is better off at 43 DT not 34DE or a 34 NT. His game is all about quickness and splitting the gaps. Never agreed with the 34 DE talk. Plenty of upside at the right position. Actual may turn out to be better than Rankins at DT down the road.

John Jenkins is a rotational NT in 43. He is not quick enough for 43DT. Not strong enough for 34NT. Not sold he has the desire to be the starter

Stephone Anthony fared pretty well as a MLB in a 43 set. I will judge in 3 years what we got. they dumped a lot on the kid. so far so good

Davis Tull I can see him as a 4-3 Sam. Starter? not sure yet. He was a WR in high school which always helps. He is athletic enough to handle it. Remember he was one of the freak-show in the pre draft beauty pageants. He obliterated the Combine 42 1/2-inch vertical and 11-foot broad jump and a pro day forty of 4.57. Thats still freakish even by 2016 standards. Football IQ was rated as high. No one questions his motor either. Give him a couple of years and lets see what we got. There is more to this kid than pass rushing skills. Plus special teams impact will be huge while we are waiting. I am actually looking forward to this show over the next couple of years.

But Kikaha is the biggest question mark in a 43. Hard to peg the kid for anything but a 34. Kikaha game is down hill and behind the line. DE? He may end up being a pass rush specialist. But I am not selling him short as an option at SLB. Some work is needed, ok maybe a good bit but stranger things have worked out. Besides it not like we have any DE opposite of Cam anyways that provide a pass rush. Weak side attacking DE?

I see this group as flexible enough to go 43. But we have a bunch of starters right now that are better suited as rotational players. Which I may blame Rob for but I will give DA some time and see were he goes with this.

Tyeler Davison DT is the move I am hoping for the most this off season. He does needs a space eater with some pass rush skills to open things up for him.

"We may have lost the game, but you'll be hurting tomorrow." Doug Atkins

rezburna

Chris Long is fine then.

K Major

Cowboys to meet with free agent DE Chris Long next week | The Star-Telegram

Jerry may over pay for his services ...