Kicking the tires on ............

[Slapstick]

Maybe we are looking at more 4-3 and hybrid looks...that could explain why both Spence and Garvin were allowed to test free agency...

[SidSmythe]

Maybe we are looking at more 4-3 and hybrid looks...that could explain why both Spence and Garvin were allowed to test free agency...

In today's NFL is there really a true 3-4/4-3 Defense?? I'd call them 1st down DEFENSES.
Steve McLendon played 34% of snaps last year. That tells me that base defenses account for 1/3 of overall defensive snaps.

Why I think it's important to have a 4/3 - Nickel - Dime DE on your roster.
That player will see the field on 60% of the snaps as opposed to the traditional 3-4 NT will.

So yes, I think the Steelers already incorporate somewhat of a 4/3 front.

[SS Laser]

I agree with the sub package DE/OLB needed. I like this guy. Plus the rookie I hope they grab in the draft. And I posted in another thread a good article over at behind the steel curtain about the new defenses. The new as in for awhile IMO. The layout can be a 3-3-5 or 1-?-? LOL! Can't remember the new "dime". Along with other schemes they talk about. Very good reads and talks about how certain players fit from this years draft!

[Oviedo]

Because Jarvis Jones was the problem with the D last season...

He definitely wasn't the solution and likely won't be going forward

[Chadman]

Given how Butler seemed to use the DL differently to how LeBeau did, more versatile players along the DL make sense. Particularly as more pass rush appears to be generated along the DL.

On the other hand, our LB's are playing a lot more coverage & run defense.

This could just be a sign on the 'new NFL' system for Defense- a lot of mobile bodies capable of multiple tasks.

also makes a guy like Keanu Neal look more attractive to the team- a safety that plays like a LB means you can play more DB's without reducing your run defense capabilities.