What's Rex's plan for DE?

Easy plan- hope that everyone runs to Ellis' side.

 

I may be wrong but did Bryan Thomas start out as a DE early in his career?

I know that was a 4-3 D but now we have a need at the 3-4 DE. I wouldnt be surprised if he lined up again, atleast occasionally. They are about 20 lbs lighter than Shaun Ellis

 

I have a serious question for the people on here who really know their shit. I have heard a lot of the knowledgeable posters on here say that Gholston would not be able to play 34 DE.

My question is...

If Gholston or Thomas put on 20 pounds from last season to the upcoming season they would be virtually the same height as Ellis (one inch shorter) and the same weight. Why then would they not be able to play DE?

 

Since u were the "draft guru" in 08, what do u think 2010 presents in the draft as far as DEs go?

 

Pizza is getting expensive and swine flu is spreading. On a serious note, fat will slow them down. They really need to gain 20 pounds in muscles, which is not easy. But I wouldnt mind at least trying out Gholston at the DE spot.

 

Thomas is already older he is not putting on 20 pounds without it being straight up fat unless he takes the juice. Gholston on the other hand is 22 he can put on 20 pounds of muscle if he works hard enough.

 

very good post.
I don't think people realize yet we'll be seeing a very different defense this year. No way Dline lines up for strictly for 2 gap responsibilities. In passing situations alone, i expect us to flood the LOS, sending 1 more than offense can block. Where one guys gets doubled, 2 more pass the LOS unblocked.

 

I don't remember seeing Suggs ever line up at end unless they had a four man front. In fact, Ryan was more likely to put an even BIGGER guy at end in Ngata in many instances. I understand there are different styles but I don't envision seeing Thomas/Pace/Gholston as 34 ends at all. Ryan's style more resembles the Steeler 34. In Pitt you never see Harrison or Woodley as 34 ends. You still see the Aaron Smiths and Keisels of the world.

On another note, its not that simple to say just put 20lbs on a guy. 1) does he have the build to gain weight 2) will he be effective at the new weight 3)can he maintain the weight 4)does the increased weight minimize his strengths of quickness and speed etc, etc, etc