Defensive Tackle

[Knight of God]

I'm not saying that the FO is wrong, I just don't like our DT rotation very much. I guess I just haven't bought in to that part of the system. I've played in a similar system and it was pretty successful, but mostly for us DB's because we had to really be on our toes.

One problem with it is the walling off in the middle. Its really hard to notice what goes on, but those speed guys are actually having to work extra hard which is why we have 3 guys who play the 3 technique. You generally don't use a NT in the 4-3. But, the benefits of doing so are a relief for the other players in many cases. Eating blocks with penetration can be done with the smaller DT's, I just honestly feel as though it works better with at least one big guy.

Right now we have Trey Lewis and Vance walker is an FA and even though he isn't 350lbs, he plays big. Coleman was smaller than Babineaux and he too played very big. That's really what I'm saying. Need our current guys to play bigger or simply cheat and just get a big guy.

What are your thought? Can you convince me? I'm open minded but haven't seen anything to make me think any different.

[dirtybird1989]

I'm not saying that the FO is wrong, I just don't like our DT rotation very much. I guess I just haven't bought in to that part of the system. I've played in a similar system and it was pretty successful, but mostly for us DB's because we had to really be on our toes.

One problem with it is the walling off in the middle. Its really hard to notice what goes on, but those speed guys are actually having to work extra hard which is why we have 3 guys who play the 3 technique. You generally don't use a NT in the 4-3. But, the benefits of doing so are a relief for the other players in many cases. Eating blocks with penetration can be done with the smaller DT's, I just honestly feel as though it works better with at least one big guy.

Right now we have Trey Lewis and Vance walker is an FA and even though he isn't 350lbs, he plays big. Coleman was smaller than Babineaux and he too played very big. That's really what I'm saying. Need our current guys to play bigger or simply cheat and just get a big guy.

What are your thought? Can you convince me? I'm open minded but haven't seen anything to make me think any different.

No, I think we need one to. I was hoping we would sign shaun rogers. The aint's ruined that idea. Fat Albert should be up for grabs. I just don't think we will sign him do to his attitude and work ethic.

[Knight of God]

No, I think we need one to. I was hoping we would sign shaun rogers. The aint's ruined that idea. Fat Albert should be up for grabs. I just don't think we will sign him do to his attitude and work ethic.

Too many red flags with Haynesworth. Which really sucks.

[dirtybird1989]

Too many red flags with Haynesworth. Which really sucks.

Yea i know. He has great potential, but chooses not to use it unless he wants a new contract. I bet coach smith could whip him in shape but we won't take that big of risk.

2011 NFL Free Agency: Star rating is out of five. Age listing as of Sept. 1, 2011.

Haloti Ngata, DT, Ravens. Age: 27.

Franchised by Ravens

Haloti Ngata is one of the top interior defensive linemen in the NFL. If the Ravens don't want to pay him top dollar, pretty much every other team in the NFL will be lining up for his services.

Paul Soliai, NT, Dolphins. Age: 27.

Franchised by Dolphins

At 6-4, 355 pounds, Paul Soliai is a monstrous, run-stuffing nose tackle. Unless the Dolphins franchise him, Soliai will get a huge contract this offseason.

Barry Cofield, DT, Giants. Age: 27.

Barry Cofield is a great interior lineman who excels against the run and provides a decent enough pass rush. He's due for a big contract this offseason.

Brandon Mebane, DT, Seahawks. Age: 26.

Brandon Mebane has always been great against the run; this year, he added some pass-rushing skills to his repertoire, allowing him to serve as an every-down player in Seattle's defense.

Cullen Jenkins, DE/DT, Packers. Age: 30.

Cullen Jenkins dominates the line of scrimmage when he's on the field. Unfortunately, Jenkins is often injured; he has missed 17 games in the past three years.

Aubrayo Franklin, NT, 49ers. Age: 31.

Aubrayo Franklin is coming off great back-to-back years - but he's never played this well when not in a contract season. As I wrote last year, caveat emptor.

Richard Seymour, DT, Raiders. Age: 31.

Re-signed with Raiders (2 years, $30 million)

And to think, the Raiders could have the No. 17 overall pick right now... Richard Seymour is obviously a very skilled defensive lineman, but age and post-contract lethargy have to be concerns.

Stephen Bowen, DE/DT, Cowboys. Age: 27.

Stephen Bowen took over for an injured Marcus Spears in the middle of the season and played very well down the stretch.

Mike Patterson, DT, Eagles. Age: 28.

Mike Patterson doesn't provide much of a pass rush, but he's an excellent run defender. He's a 4-3 player only. There's some dispute about whether Patterson is a free agent or not. A Washington Post salary cap expert believes Patterson will become a free agent if no CBA is met by March 4.

Shaun Smith, DE/DT, Chiefs. Age: 30.

Shaun Smith turns 30 in August, but he's still a strong two-down, run-stuffing defensive end in the 3-4.

Pat Williams, NT, Vikings. Age: 38.

A two-down run-stuffer, Pat Williams still got it done this season despite playing at 38 years old. He'll try to help a contender.

Marcus Spears, DE/DT, Cowboys. Age: 28.

When motivated, Marcus Spears is a force against the run. He offers no pass rush, however.

Justin Bannan, DE/DT, Broncos. Age: 32.

Justin Bannan had a solid year for the Broncos, which makes you wonder why they released him. Bannan can play in both the 4-3 and 3-4.

Anthony Adams, DT, Bears. Age: 31.

Anthony Adams had a slightly down year by his standards, but the Bears are still working to extend the run-stuffer.

John Henderson, DT, Raiders. Age: 32.

Re-signed with Raiders (2 years, $8 million)

John Henderson missed a ton of action this season with a foot injury, but was a very forceful run-stuffer when he was in the lineup.

Ron Edwards, NT, Chiefs. Age: 32.

Ron Edwards did a decent job of stuffing the run early in the season, but seemed to wear down as the season progressed.

Kenyon Coleman, DE/DT, Browns. Age: 32.

Kenyon Coleman doesn't offer much of a pass rush (3 sacks in 2010), but he's a very good run defender as a 3-4 defensive end.

Shaun Rogers, DT, Browns. Age: 32.

Signed with Saints (1 year, $4 million)

Shaun Rogers was dumped by the Browns because of his $6 million salary, but he should still be OK as a two-down run-stuffer.

Take your pick i choose Ngata or Henderson, but im sure ravens are resigning Ngata.

[Knight of God]

Yea i know. He has great potential, but chooses not to use it unless he wants a new contract. I bet coach smith could whip him in shape but we won't take that big of risk.

2011 NFL Free Agency: Star rating is out of five. Age listing as of Sept. 1, 2011.

Haloti Ngata, DT, Ravens. Age: 27.

Franchised by Ravens

Haloti Ngata is one of the top interior defensive linemen in the NFL. If the Ravens don't want to pay him top dollar, pretty much every other team in the NFL will be lining up for his services.

Paul Soliai, NT, Dolphins. Age: 27.

Franchised by Dolphins

At 6-4, 355 pounds, Paul Soliai is a monstrous, run-stuffing nose tackle. Unless the Dolphins franchise him, Soliai will get a huge contract this offseason.

Barry Cofield, DT, Giants. Age: 27.

Barry Cofield is a great interior lineman who excels against the run and provides a decent enough pass rush. He's due for a big contract this offseason.

Brandon Mebane, DT, Seahawks. Age: 26.

Brandon Mebane has always been great against the run; this year, he added some pass-rushing skills to his repertoire, allowing him to serve as an every-down player in Seattle's defense.

Cullen Jenkins, DE/DT, Packers. Age: 30.

Cullen Jenkins dominates the line of scrimmage when he's on the field. Unfortunately, Jenkins is often injured; he has missed 17 games in the past three years.

Aubrayo Franklin, NT, 49ers. Age: 31.

Aubrayo Franklin is coming off great back-to-back years - but he's never played this well when not in a contract season. As I wrote last year, caveat emptor.

Richard Seymour, DT, Raiders. Age: 31.

Re-signed with Raiders (2 years, $30 million)

And to think, the Raiders could have the No. 17 overall pick right now... Richard Seymour is obviously a very skilled defensive lineman, but age and post-contract lethargy have to be concerns.

Stephen Bowen, DE/DT, Cowboys. Age: 27.

Stephen Bowen took over for an injured Marcus Spears in the middle of the season and played very well down the stretch.

Mike Patterson, DT, Eagles. Age: 28.

Mike Patterson doesn't provide much of a pass rush, but he's an excellent run defender. He's a 4-3 player only. There's some dispute about whether Patterson is a free agent or not. A Washington Post salary cap expert believes Patterson will become a free agent if no CBA is met by March 4.

Shaun Smith, DE/DT, Chiefs. Age: 30.

Shaun Smith turns 30 in August, but he's still a strong two-down, run-stuffing defensive end in the 3-4.

Pat Williams, NT, Vikings. Age: 38.

A two-down run-stuffer, Pat Williams still got it done this season despite playing at 38 years old. He'll try to help a contender.

Marcus Spears, DE/DT, Cowboys. Age: 28.

When motivated, Marcus Spears is a force against the run. He offers no pass rush, however.

Justin Bannan, DE/DT, Broncos. Age: 32.

Justin Bannan had a solid year for the Broncos, which makes you wonder why they released him. Bannan can play in both the 4-3 and 3-4.

Anthony Adams, DT, Bears. Age: 31.

Anthony Adams had a slightly down year by his standards, but the Bears are still working to extend the run-stuffer.

John Henderson, DT, Raiders. Age: 32.

Re-signed with Raiders (2 years, $8 million)

John Henderson missed a ton of action this season with a foot injury, but was a very forceful run-stuffer when he was in the lineup.

Ron Edwards, NT, Chiefs. Age: 32.

Ron Edwards did a decent job of stuffing the run early in the season, but seemed to wear down as the season progressed.

Kenyon Coleman, DE/DT, Browns. Age: 32.

Kenyon Coleman doesn't offer much of a pass rush (3 sacks in 2010), but he's a very good run defender as a 3-4 defensive end.

Shaun Rogers, DT, Browns. Age: 32.

Signed with Saints (1 year, $4 million)

Shaun Rogers was dumped by the Browns because of his $6 million salary, but he should still be OK as a two-down run-stuffer.

Take your pick i choose Ngata or Henderson, but im sure ravens are resigning Ngata.

Not much to choose from...have you taken a look at Anthony Gray from Southern Mississippi?

[Zanka]

Give me Brandon MeBane or Tommy Harris.

[birdz4i]

Give me Brandon MeBane or Tommy Harris.

harris hasn t really been the same since the injuries.

[birdz4i]

i agree. we have tried the smaller faster dts and we just don t seem to get consistent pressure. even when the edges collapse qbs seem to be able to step up in the pocket.

[JRid]

I was hoping we would sign Shawn Rogers, but that didn't work out. I really think he would have made a difference.

I'm staying positive and thinking that all of our young guys are going to be better this year than they were last year. I like Vance Walker and I hope we keep him. I don't understand what is up with Trey Lewis because he looked great in the pre-season, but never got to play in the regular season.

I remember last year we were supposedly very interested in a big DT in the draft, but I can't remember his name right now. He played somewhere in Florida and went in the second or third round. I think he was 330lbs or somewhere around there. I seem to recall that we worked out 1 or 2 big DT's this year too, but not sure.

[Knight of God]

I was hoping we would sign Shawn Rogers, but that didn't work out. I really think he would have made a difference.

I'm staying positive and thinking that all of our young guys are going to be better this year than they were last year. I like Vance Walker and I hope we keep him. I don't understand what is up with Trey Lewis because he looked great in the pre-season, but never got to play in the regular season.

I remember last year we were supposedly very interested in a big DT in the draft, but I can't remember his name right now. He played somewhere in Florida and went in the second or third round. I think he was 330lbs or somewhere around there. I seem to recall that we worked out 1 or 2 big DT's this year too, but not sure.

Terrence "Mount" Cody?

[Knight of God]

As for Haynesworth, it just doesn't look much like he's going to be a Falcon or that they are even going to get a big guy. As much as I want them to. Haloti Ngata has already been resigned I found. Any of the guys above are guys I'd love to have, but have serius doubts we'll get.

Really I don't understand the philosophy.

[dirtybird1989]

I dont want Haynsworth. Becauce his work ethic Haynesworth a $hit. Get it lol.

[freebird310]

Give Jerry and Peters a chance to improve, I actually think the rotation is decent, but I agree just one good big Grady type body eater would be nice to see in the mix ......Screw Haynesworth, he's a weirdo ........

[HouTexFalcon]

As for Haynesworth, it just doesn't look much like he's going to be a Falcon or that they are even going to get a big guy. As much as I want them to. Haloti Ngata has already been resigned I found. Any of the guys above are guys I'd love to have, but have serius doubts we'll get.

Really I don't understand the philosophy.

Ngata would have been nasty. My goodness!!! Our D would be ferocious.

No way could the Ravens have afforded to let that guy walk.

Oh well, heres to a fallen dream.

[TdotFalcon]

I really hope Jerry steps up his game. I don't want him to be labeled a bust. Those knees scare me though, he is a big man and had problems even before we drafted him.

As for Corey Peters, I am actually optimistic. He showed promise and I think he will only get better with time.

We are good at DT, and switching to 3-4 is obviously not going to happen with this regime.

[Knight of God]

Give Jerry and Peters a chance to improve, I actually think the rotation is decent, but I agree just one good big Grady type body eater would be nice to see in the mix ......Screw Haynesworth, he's a weirdo ........

No doubt about that. I'm talking space eater. Not replacement. I just want those guys to get some help.

Ngata would have been nasty. My goodness!!! Our D would be ferocious.

No way could the Ravens have afforded to let that guy walk.

Oh well, heres to a fallen dream.

No way. He's a joy to watch though. A fierce first step and the power to move guys out of the way.

[HouTexFalcon]

No doubt about that. I'm talking space eater. Not replacement. I just want those guys to get some help.

No way. He's a joy to watch though. A fierce first step and the power to move guys out of the way.

Yeah, he a very atheletic big man. I think he even used to play rugby too. In rugby, you have to play both sides

of the ball.

I enjoy watchin him every time except for against the Falcons.

[TdotFalcon]

I'm talking space eater. Not replacement. I just want those guys to get some help.

I am all for giving these guys help, but I think going with a big DT will be counter-productive in a 4-3 scheme. We need fast gap shooters, I know I don't need to lecture you on the difference on DT's in the 4-3 vs the 3-4; you're a smart guy and I love your posts.

I disagree with the logic on getting a big man though, if we were to get another DT I would want a Babs clone.

Edited May 17, 2011 by TdotFalcon

[Knight of God]

I am all for giving these guys help, but I think going with a big DT will be counter-productive in a 4-3 scheme. We need fast gap shooters, I know I don't need to lecture you on the difference on DT's in the 4-3 vs the 3-4; you're a smart guy and I love your posts.

I disagree with the logic on getting a big man though, if we were to get another DT I would want a Babs clone.

I know what you're saying. I guess its just something I like. Doesn't have to be huge, just bigger and stronger than we have. I just love that in rotation. It gives variety.

[dirtybird1989]

Not much to choose from...have you taken a look at Anthony Gray from Southern Mississippi?

No i havent, but i will.

[Rai]

Haynesworth is the best available defensive tackle. There are no playing concerns with the guy. All his problems are off-field issues including getting in trouble with the law, poor attitude and money.

I have to say this though; a franchise which has great chemistry and leadership and a tight locker-room along with a winning mentality can completely transform a cancer into a stud.

It happened with Randy Moss in 2007. After that unbelievable season for the right and wrong reasons, he's gone back to his old self. Must have really hurt him not to win that super bowl. Shaun Rogers took a big pay cut this year to play for a winning team and I bet he'll be one of the better signings this year.

It's a risk/reward thing. I highly doubt we sign him but he's the most talented DT in the NFL that's never really been part of a winning tradition.

[Knight of God]

Haynesworth is the best available defensive tackle. There are no playing concerns with the guy. All his problems are off-field issues including getting in trouble with the law, poor attitude and money.

I have to say this though; a franchise which has great chemistry and leadership and a tight locker-room along with a winning mentality can completely transform a cancer into a stud.

It happened with Randy Moss in 2007. After that unbelievable season for the right and wrong reasons, he's gone back to his old self. Must have really hurt him not to win that super bowl. Shaun Rogers took a big pay cut this year to play for a winning team and I bet he'll be one of the better signings this year.

It's a risk/reward thing. I highly doubt we sign him but he's the most talented DT in the NFL that's never really been part of a winning tradition.

I agree 100%

[takeitdown]

I think the problem has been more talent level than type of DT.

If we'd had two Babineaux's playing side by side the last few years, I think we'd have seen the plan. Instead, our 1st rounder was out, and we used backups, and then the next year our first rounder was coming back from injury. While I like Walker and Lewis, they're not uber talented.

The question comes down to whether it's better to have two Babineaux's side by side, or a Babineaux and a Dan Williams type.

I think the team will always be on the lookout for that 320+ lber who can move, but if it's between a plugger or a penetrator, they're going to opt for the penetrator. If there's a big guy who can penetrate (Ngata, Raji, etc.) they'd be all over it.

So, basically, I think we haven't see what they want the DT rotation to look like because we've had 1 guy we wanted (Babs) and then either backups or a rookie 3rd rounder occupying the spot beside him. If Jerry comes back mostly repaired this year, I think we'll see what they're aiming for, and hopefully see a ton of interior pressure.

[JRid]

Terrence "Mount" Cody?

Haha, nope it wasn't him. It was actually Torrell Troup from UCF. I was off on the weight because he is listed at 314 coming out of college. He is bigger than most of our guys though.

[Knight of God]

Haha, nope it wasn't him. It was actually Torrell Troup from UCF. I was off on the weight because he is listed at 314 coming out of college. He is bigger than most of our guys though.

Okay. He's good too. It isn't the weight for me so much, its the way a player plays. I like when a guy in the middle plays big and then gets skinny at the right moment.