FanPost

Why this defense needs a versatile DT/DE like Star, not a 5 tech DE.

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via www.pac12sportswatch.com

Chip Kelly recently said we will be running BOTH 3 and 4 man sets, depending on which team we face. We will use base 3 man sets against running teams but against passing teams, we'll stay primarily in the nickel, using a 4 man front. This creates a spot for Graham and Cole as 4-2-5 DEs, but who plays inside next to Cox? We can't use a 280 pound 5 tech DE or a 340 pound NT like Sopoaga, we need a versatile 300 pounder who can both rush the passer and hold his own against double teams. Star fits this need perfectly, but Hankins and the Williamses also fit. Regardless, also we'll still need a LEO who can both rush the QB and cover TEs, something few players in this draft(and perhaps none on our roster) can do besides Jordan and Mingo. So basically this defense needs a LEO(OLB/DE hybrid) and DT/DE hybrid, both which might require premium picks.

We've been paying a lot of attention to OTs, assuming a 5 tech could be acquired later on, but that is not necessarily the case if we're running both 3 and 4 man sets. I love Brandon Williams, and perhaps he could last until the early 3rd, but I think he goes before the end of the 2nd. I thought Magnus Hunt would make sense as a 3-4 DE, but he wouldn't work as a DT in a 4 man front. I have zero confidence in Thornton, sorry. This means we should really try to get Star, Hankins or one of the three Williams(Sylvester, Jesse, Brandon). Maybe we could get away with drafting both a 5 tech like Hunt or Gholston and a DT like Bennie Logan, but a quality, versatile player who can do both would really benefit the defense.


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via www.therunnersports.com