Why is everyone calling for a LB?

[Texans_Chick]

I absolutely agree with you. If I sound like I'm betting the farm on Diles and Adibi being allpros then I've not communicated well. I'm just trying to illustrate that our LB corp right now has both talent and good depth. I understand that there are plenty of question marks regarding our OLBs, though Bentley's presence on the team really eases those concerns for me. I think we should come out of this draft with 1-2 LBs, I just don't see how our LB corp can be graded out as a higher priority than our secondary, our RBackfield, or our interior OLine.

Secondary-There may not be good value available at 15

RB-This isn't a great RB draft at the top of the draft. Do you really want to spend first round money on a guy who is going to be a complement to a third round back who will be making less money.

Interior OLine-I can see the case for an upgrade but if a great guy was available at 15, I'd prefer to get some other team to bite for a trade up. The Texans have been able to make do with their system on the Oline. The Texans have a clear system on offense and a coach who is proven to be able to coach up guys who haven't been drafted highly. The only plan that the Texans have so far on defense is to draft playmakers and hope they can make plays. Defense needs some help.

 

[V3rm0nt3r]

great thread. before i say anything know that i'm not much of a BPA guy on the first day. second day i am a fan of value picks (like Adibi last year) but you need to fill needs first and foremost in the first round. and thats why i'm calling for Malcom Jenkins (if he's available at 15) Beanie Wells (if we insist on staying at 15 and Jenkins isn't available) Sean Smith (trade down) or Ron Brace (trade down and Smith isn't available).

 

[Texecutioner]

Secondary-There may not be good value available at 15

RB-This isn't a great RB draft at the top of the draft. Do you really want to spend first round money on a guy who is going to be a complement to a third round back who will be making less money.

I terribly disagree here. I think Moreno is the best RB prospect to enter the draft since Adrian Peterson came out. Beanie Wells should for surely be a franchise RB that will be really good for many years. He would totally be the man to pair with Slaton more than anyone actually, but in no way do I want the Texans to draft a RB in the first round and I know that they won't any way.

The only plan that the Texans have so far on defense is to draft playmakers and hope they can make plays. Defense needs some help.

Agreed. We need play makers on the defensive side of the ball now. We are lacking there and really need to find some play makers.

 

[Texecutioner]

So with this logic should we draft Snachez if he is there?

Same thing I was thinking.

We need to find some play makers on the defensive side of the ball in the first two rounds for sure.

 

[GP]

This team has NOT been strong at linebacker. It's pretty much featured one guy (Sharper, and now Ryans) and like TC has said: career backups.

Throw in (a) injury issues and (b) possible contract issues with DeMeco, and introduce the potential to add a linebacker who has "Round 1" talent, and I am more than comfortable with taking a LB if he's a good one.

If DeMeco wants to continue his attitude, we've drafted a replacement LB. A lot of people were down on AJ Hawk, thinking the Packers sorta' wasted that pick. He has settled into that role nicely. He's not a bust.

As TC has said, I also do not like the DB prospects--At least not in terms of "Round 1 talent."

I actually hate drafting at 15. Are you getting a guy at value, someone who slid down (Amobi, for example) for some weird reason? Or are you reaching for a guy who was going to be there at the end of the round?

Picks 1-10 seem to produce players that you can identify as being a good selection. And then there's Charles Rogers.

 

[dalemurphy]

Secondary-There may not be good value available at 15

RB-This isn't a great RB draft at the top of the draft. Do you really want to spend first round money on a guy who is going to be a complement to a third round back who will be making less money.

Interior OLine-I can see the case for an upgrade but if a great guy was available at 15, I'd prefer to get some other team to bite for a trade up. The Texans have been able to make do with their system on the Oline. The Texans have a clear system on offense and a coach who is proven to be able to coach up guys who haven't been drafted highly. The only plan that the Texans have so far on defense is to draft playmakers and hope they can make plays. Defense needs some help.

I would have some interest in Donald Brown, Moreno, or Wells in the first round... certainly more interest than I do Cushing or Matthews at the same spot.

Regarding the oline, you are using the assertion that we can do fine with lesser talent because of the "clear system and coach". My point is that our talent on defense may begin to show itself to be better than you expect now that we should have a "clear system" and better coaching on that side of the ball. Though difficult to compare, I'd feel pretty good arguing that our talent at LB is much better than our talent at C/G.

Regarding where our LBs relate to the rest of the league, I don't think I can know that yet. I think DRyans is clearly in the top 1/2 of the league as a starting LB. Though a fairly small sample, I think Diles proved to be a quality starter at the strong side. Based on Adibi's first season and his college career, I would rate Adibi ahead of Clay Matthews and Brian Cushing as a pro prospect. I think his ceiling is at least as high as those guys and he's already proven that he can play at that level when healthy. But, more to the point, Bentley and CThompson are very competant depth at the position and I think Coley is a luxury as an excellent ST player and a sixth LB.

It appears to me that even a reach for someone like Unger upgrades the talent level and depth of the team much more than Matthews or Cushing does. Certainly, Moreno at RB upgrades the team more. We can argue about whether Adibi can add weight and if Diles can be better than average. What can't be argued is that Slaton shouldn't be counted on for 400 carries and Ryan Moats has no business being his primary backup. I'd take Moreno if the team has him rated high and feed him the ball 200 times along with Slaton. Looking at the playoff teams from last season, many of them have multiple first day picks at HB and/or two guys with relatively high salaries:

Pittsburgh: Parker/Mendenhall
Tennessee: CJohnson/LWhite/CHenry (Tennessee was mocked for drafting CJohnson last year, if you remember, because he was the third first day RB in as many years. Everyone thought they should've taken someone like Limas Sweed instead. That's the kind of mistake that the good organizations don't make.
Miami- Ricky Williams/Ronnie Brown
Carolina- Deangelo Williams/Jonathan Stewart
Atlanta- Norwood/ Michael Turner
Minnesota- Chester Taylor/Adrian Peterson

I just don't see a problem with Slaton getting paid less than another guy he shares his carries with. If Slaton has another good season, the existance of another back on the team getting paid well will have little to do wtih his demand for another contract. He's going to demand one regardless and we'll be obliged to give it to him.

 

[dalemurphy]

Same thing I was thinking.

We need to find some play makers on the defensive side of the ball in the first two rounds for sure.

We have plenty of athletes on defense and certainly have put money and picks on that side of the ball. I want our team to add talent to both sides of the ball. What I don't want to do is use the draft to pepper an area of weakness from the year before. Instead, I want to collect and develop talent across the board. When I look at our roster, RB, Safety, and OC/OG are the three glaring areas that lack any depth of talent.

If Adibi gets injured in week #2, then we have Dryans, Diles, and Bentley starting at LB. I believe we can win with those guys. If DRyans gets injured in week #4, I still think we can win with CThompson, Diles, and Bentley playing at LB.

However, if the offense loses CPitts and Briesel, do you think we can win games with CWhite, CMyers, and Studdard in the middle of our OLine? My God!, that's so disgusting to think about, I almost couldn't type it.

Or, if Slaton goes down injured, how do you feel about Ryan Moats and Cecil Sapp as our 1-2 punch at RB?

Or, if Eugene Wilson gets injured, do you feel good about Dominique Barber and Brandon Harrison as our starting safeties... By the way, we don't even have a 4th safety on the roster right now.

 

[AcresHomesTexan]

Not convinced that everyone is calling for an OLB, but when looking at pick 15 in this draft I am not covinced that there is a "perfect" pick there for the Texans. Remember NFL team don't think BPA versus need, but really meld the two ideas in different shades of gray. There is a good argument to be made that the best combination on the board at 15 of talent and realistic need in at OLB. Not matter the position unless someone falls unexpectedly the pick will come under question from at least half of the fanbase. just setting up that way.

I would say the chatter amoung Texans fans have come from two places. Rick smith earlier in the off-season sayin that he likes the talent at OLB in the draft and "the General" repeating that the Texans will take an OLB in the draft over and over. Still, looking at the roster, given the FA signings and what's coming back, OLB is a need. While we have seen flashes of goodness from Adibi and diles, the idea the Texans maybe thinking about using a high draft choice on players who may have talent is actually a positive development.

 

[Kaiser Toro]

Some of have already mentioned my observations of our current LB corps, but I will amplify them:

Diles - too slow sideline to sideline, and vertical speed is a question mark for him in a new pressure defense that will get up the field. A broken leg is not the best injury to come back from when speed is already an issue.

Adibi - I love his potential, love his speed. But I am not waiting on potential, draft another LB to really test his mettle.

Ryans - I feel he hasn't played up to his rookie year largely because of injury and the wear and tear of having no DT's keeping him clean. If we take a LB in the first or second I could see us making the tender next year that gives us only a 1st rounder in return.

Light DT's, banged up MLB and poor Safety play means a soft middle of the field. 8-8 here we come again, if we are lucky.

Thompson, Bentley, Coley, Diles and Adibi are all real nice back ups, even luxuries, but not take that to the bank starters for a playoff team. Adibi, however, could take it to that next level in my opinion, but have a feeling there is a mental disconnect somewhere.

If we do not draft a LB in the first four rounds I would be shocked.

I expect a LB, DE/DT, RB, CB/S and C/G to be selected with the first five picks, but in no particular order.

In summary, this team needs to get better players on defense and guys that want to be here. On offense we need guys who live in the end zone as we already know how to move it between the 20's. We must get stronger between the tackles and force our will on both sides of the ball.

 

[GP]

We have plenty of athletes on defense and certainly have put money and picks on that side of the ball. I want our team to add talent to both sides of the ball. What I don't want to do is use the draft to pepper an area of weakness from the year before. Instead, I want to collect and develop talent across the board. When I look at our roster, RB, Safety, and OC/OG are the three glaring areas that lack any depth of talent.

If Adibi gets injured in week #2, then we have Dryans, Diles, and Bentley starting at LB. I believe we can win with those guys. If DRyans gets injured in week #4, I still think we can win with CThompson, Diles, and Bentley playing at LB.

However, if the offense loses CPitts and Briesel, do you think we can win games with CWhite, CMyers, and Studdard in the middle of our OLine? My God!, that's so disgusting to think about, I almost couldn't type it.

Or, if Slaton goes down injured, how do you feel about Ryan Moats and Cecil Sapp as our 1-2 punch at RB?

Or, if Eugene Wilson gets injured, do you feel good about Dominique Barber and Brandon Harrison as our starting safeties... By the way, we don't even have a 4th safety on the roster right now.

Dale:

This is where it comes off as you being married to your idea(s).

We know you don't think LB is as important of a need as it might appear to a large sector of the fans here. And that's OK.

We cannot ever predict the injuries that will happen, when they will occur, and to whom they will plague. Stuff happens. So we're not going to be able to have top-rate talent "two deep" at all 22 positions on the field. We're talking about Round 1...and there are 6 more rounds to grab that 4th safety that we need.

I think there's a pretty good chance that we might have the perfect crap storm if something happens to DeMeco (injury OR flying the nest at end of season) or to Diles or to Adibi, or to a couple of those guys. Heck, all three of those guys ARE playing injured to some degree: DeMeco's left shoulder, Diles' leg rehab, and whatever happens to grip Adibi on any particular day.

The draft is fluid. Things can change one or two picks ahead of us. Things could shift dramatically if the top 2 or 3 teams do the unexpected, and it alters the course of the rest of the round.

You make good points. So do others.

This sort of back and forth is what I amtalking about in my Pre-Draft Testosterone Wars thread. And I am not ragging on you, so please don't misjudge. I am merely saying that we are all on edge for the draft, and there'll be other similary-talked about issues all the way up until the kickoff of the regular season. Then we can gripe for the first 6 weeks as we try to figure out how Gary Kubiak managed to screw up the season again. LOL.

It. Has. Begun.

This is the Battle at Lexington thread of the Pre-Draft Testosterone Wars.

 

[dalemurphy]

Dale:

This is where it comes off as you being married to your idea(s).

We know you don't think LB is as important of a need as it might appear to a large sector of the fans here. And that's OK.

We cannot ever predict the injuries that will happen, when they will occur, and to whom they will plague. Stuff happens. So we're not going to be able to have top-rate talent "two deep" at all 22 positions on the field. We're talking about Round 1...and there are 6 more rounds to grab that 4th safety that we need.

I think there's a pretty good chance that we might have the perfect crap storm if something happens to DeMeco (injury OR flying the nest at end of season) or to Diles or to Adibi, or to a couple of those guys. Heck, all three of those guys ARE playing injured to some degree: DeMeco's left shoulder, Diles' leg rehab, and whatever happens to grip Adibi on any particular day.

The draft is fluid. Things can change one or two picks ahead of us. Things could shift dramatically if the top 2 or 3 teams do the unexpected, and it alters the course of the rest of the round.

You make good points. So do others.

This sort of back and forth is what I amtalking about in my Pre-Draft Testosterone Wars thread. And I am not ragging on you, so please don't misjudge. I am merely saying that we are all on edge for the draft, and there'll be other similary-talked about issues all the way up until the kickoff of the regular season. Then we can gripe for the first 6 weeks as we try to figure out how Gary Kubiak managed to screw up the season again. LOL.

It. Has. Begun.

This is the Battle at Lexington thread of the Pre-Draft Testosterone Wars.

I wouldn't be opposed to a LB going in the first round, it just better be because he's the highest rated player on the board and not because we need a LB. I had no problem with reaching a bit, arguably, for Brown last year because we did have a glaring need at LT and they just aren't available in free agency.

I'd like to come out of this draft with 1-2 lbs. I just don't see how anyone can have LB as anything more than our 4th priority, at this point.

 

[Ole Miss Texan]

Let's look at this realistically. What players would be worthy/value at the 15th pick?

QB- Stafford, Sanchez, Freeman?
RB- Brown, Moreno, Wells, McCoy?
TE- Pettigrew?
WR- Maclin, Crabtree, Harvin, DHB, Hicks?
FB-None
LT- Oher, Monroe, Smith,Smith, Britton, Beatty?
OG- None
C- None
DE- Orakpo, Brown, Maybin, Johnson, Jackson, English, Ayers?
DT- Raji, Jerry
LB- Curry, Cushing, Maualuga, Matthews, Laurinaitis?
CB- Jenkins, Davis, Smith?
S- None

If you look at it by position and who "could" get selected in the mid first... cross of who you think will get taken top 10, etc. It's easier to try and figure what players/positions will be available. Then see where those match up with our needs. Then compare the most talented to those that are next best on our needs list.

 

[Lucky]

I'm sorry to disagree with the sunshine squad (again), but there are still needs on this team. A pass rusher is a very definite need. A playmaker at safety is a need. Depth on the offensive line is a need. A complementary back to Slaton is a need. And yeah, linebacker is a need.

Probably too many needs to fill in one draft, which is why I hope the Texans aren't finished in free agency. The Texans don't have to force a pick in the 1st round because they have so many needs to choose from.

 

[dalemurphy]

Let's look at this realistically. What players would be worthy/value at the 15th pick?

QB- Stafford, Sanchez, Freeman?
RB- Brown, Moreno, Wells, McCoy?
TE- Pettigrew?
WR- Maclin, Crabtree[/I], Harvin, DHB, Hicks?
FB-None
LT- Oher, Monroe[/I], Smith[/I],Smith, Britton, Beatty?
OG- None
C- None UNGER!
DE- Orakpo, Brown,[/I] Maybin, Johnson, Jackson, English, Ayers?
DT- Raji,[/I] Jerry
LB- Curry, Cushing, Maualuga, Matthews, Laurinaitis?
CB- Jenkins, Davis, Smith?
S- None

If you look at it by position and who "could" get selected in the mid first... cross of who you think will get taken top 10, etc. It's easier to try and figure what players/positions will be available. Then see where those match up with our needs. Then compare the most talented to those that are next best on our needs list.

In bold are players I'd consider taking at #15. In italics are players that will most likely be gone. As far as OTs go, If we had a guy we considered elite slip to us, I'd take him and consider an eventual transition to guard for Winston.

 

[dalemurphy]

I'm sorry to disagree with the sunshine squad (again), but there are still needs on this team. A pass rusher is a very definite need. A playmaker at safety is a need. Depth on the offensive line is a need. A complementary back to Slaton is a need. And yeah, linebacker is a need.

Probably too many needs to fill in one draft, which is why I hope the Texans aren't finished in free agency. The Texans don't have to force a pick in the 1st round because they have so many needs to choose from.

If we successfully filled every need to your satisfaction, we'd rate somewhere between the '92 Cowboys and '75 Steelers.

 

[dalemurphy]

Needs in order of priority:

1. safety- a 6th rounder that played well on special teams is the defacto starting SS and our only backup is Brandon "I just got my nails done" Harrison.

2.RB- Ryan Moats, Chris Brown, and Cecil Sapp are the only backs other than Slaton on the roster. One has a bad back, one is a FB, and the other is just not any good.

3. C/G- We have two moderately talented journeyman types starting at C and RG... Then, our primary backup guard needs a spotter just to tie his own shoe (Studdard!)

4. Take your pick: DE, DT, LB, CB

I don't know how anyone can even dispute that LB is no higher than 4th. That being said, I do understand that the 4th priority could still get addressed in the first round, depending on how the talent falls and where we end up.

 

[Kaiser Toro]

If we successfully filled every need to your satisfaction, we'd rate somewhere between the '92 Cowboys and '75 Steelers.

That is the goal.

 

[TimeKiller]

Needs in order of priority:

1. safety- a 6th rounder that played well on special teams is the defacto starting SS and our only backup is Brandon "I just got my nails done" Harrison.

2.RB- Ryan Moats, Chris Brown, and Cecil Sapp are the only backs other than Slaton on the roster. One has a bad back, one is a FB, and the other is just not any good.

3. C/G- We have two moderately talented journeyman types starting at C and RG... Then, our primary backup guard needs a spotter just to tie his own shoe (Studdard!)

4. Take your pick: DE, DT, LB, CB

I don't know how anyone can even dispute that LB is no higher than 4th. That being said, I do understand that the 4th priority could still get addressed in the first round, depending on how the talent falls and where we end up.

Safety is totally #1 need, I don't think many would disagree. This draft barely gets a safety mentioned anywhere in the first round so that's out. Same for DT and DE unless somebody falls unexpectedly.

Backup RB is a need, not 2nd. We need a guy who can come in and be a solid 3 or 4 yards in between Slaton-time. Honestly, a 4-7 round guy will be fine for now, preferably a grinder.

Interior O-Line help would be great but certainly doesn't rank ahead of the Interior D-line need. Probably about even IMO.

CB or LB really is left defensively (where the most help is needed). What sucks about this draft is the gap between top 12ish/15ish players and the rest of the draft. Seems like a weak class, pretty much every position we pick for is reaching a bit. May as well fill a need, you know?

 

[Big Lou]

Trade back, and then BDPA.

We need Defense, with this draft I think you can find a starter in round one and two. Trade back, and try to get another second or high third.

I'm not against LB's, but he better end up bieng a day one starter that is a freaking stud at the Pro Level, and can get after the QB when needed.Our LB's our undersized for a Defense Line that is about penetration. The LB's our going to need to be able to mop up when the RB's get past the first level. The LB's are going to take a beating through out the year so it's not bad having depth.

It's just too bad there isn't a 1st round kick ass Safety. Who knows maybe there is an under rated Safety in the draft like Demeco was underated at LB.

 

[The Pencil Neck]

I'm sorry to disagree with the sunshine squad (again), but there are still needs on this team. A pass rusher is a very definite need. A playmaker at safety is a need. Depth on the offensive line is a need. A complementary back to Slaton is a need. And yeah, linebacker is a need.

Probably too many needs to fill in one draft, which is why I hope the Texans aren't finished in free agency. The Texans don't have to force a pick in the 1st round because they have so many needs to choose from.

But most of what you're saying we need aren't things that normally come from the first round of the draft. We'd have to be absolutely STOCKED at all positions before I'd be happy drafting someone for depth on the O-Line or as a complimentary running back.

I don't think there is a real playmaking safety in this draft except for maybe Jenkins and do you really want to spend a first on a guy that you're going to take a chance on by changing his position?

So that leaves a pass rusher or a linebacker. That means someone that a lot of the people on this board are going to consider a reach or a risk.

 

[Big Lou]

LB's not a lock.

Due to the Defensive needs it all depends on who falls, because it happens every year.

If a DE, DT, or CB falls to 15 I think they'll take them. If there is LB there they really like they'll take'm. Also if no one wants to trade up, then that's a big factor as well.

Before everyone gets up in arms about the Texans strategy we'll have to see what happens from the Lions to the Saints before we'll know what they're gonna do.

On second thought we do need some fodder until late April!!!!!!!

 

[The Pencil Neck]

Needs in order of priority:

1. safety- a 6th rounder that played well on special teams is the defacto starting SS and our only backup is Brandon "I just got my nails done" Harrison.

2.RB- Ryan Moats, Chris Brown, and Cecil Sapp are the only backs other than Slaton on the roster. One has a bad back, one is a FB, and the other is just not any good.

3. C/G- We have two moderately talented journeyman types starting at C and RG... Then, our primary backup guard needs a spotter just to tie his own shoe (Studdard!)

4. Take your pick: DE, DT, LB, CB

I don't know how anyone can even dispute that LB is no higher than 4th. That being said, I do understand that the 4th priority could still get addressed in the first round, depending on how the talent falls and where we end up.

We have one of the worst defenses in the league and you think we have no real needs on that side of the ball outside of a safety? I don't see how you can argue that.

Sure, the needs on the offensive side of the ball are painfully obvious. But they are needs that can be filled, and probably filled quite well, later in the draft. And obviously, I consider LB a much higher need because I have no faith that any of these guys other than Demeco is ever going to see the field again. And we've seen that when Adibi played how much better our defense looked. If we improve our LB's, it could translate into a huge improvement in all phases of our defense.

 

[dalemurphy]

But most of what you're saying we need aren't things that normally come from the first round of the draft. We'd have to be absolutely STOCKED at all positions before I'd be happy drafting someone for depth on the O-Line or as a complimentary running back.

I don't think there is a real playmaking safety in this draft except for maybe Jenkins and do you really want to spend a first on a guy that you're going to take a chance on by changing his position?

So that leaves a pass rusher or a linebacker. That means someone that a lot of the people on this board are going to consider a reach or a risk.

Drafting Oline wouldn't be just depth since Myers and Briesel are very limited athletes. They'd be competition and potential upgrades.

As for RB, considering that even if Slaton is healthy for 16 games, we still need someone else to touch the ball 200 times from the backfield. I think a player that involved is worthy of a first round pick. Look around the league!!

By the way, other than A.Curry, there are no LBs likely to get drafted in the first round who have proven to be successful 3 down backers. Cushing, Matthews, Laurinitis, Maliluga... all have some questions. And, if we get a pure pass rusher like Maybin, Johnson, Orakpo, Brown... those guys won't be 3 down DEs either.

 

[dalemurphy]

We have one of the worst defenses in the league and you think we have no real needs on that side of the ball outside of a safety? I don't see how you can argue that.

Sure, the needs on the offensive side of the ball are painfully obvious. But they are needs that can be filled, and probably filled quite well, later in the draft. And obviously, I consider LB a much higher need because I have no faith that any of these guys other than Demeco is ever going to see the field again. And we've seen that when Adibi played how much better our defense looked. If we improve our LB's, it could translate into a huge improvement in all phases of our defense.

What is your problem with Bentley? By the way, the LB class is very deep this year. Why can't LB be filled later in the draft. Why won't Adibi and Diles see the field again. According to the coaching staff, Adibi is healthy and Diles will be 100% for minicamp. I think we could use a lot of things of defense. I'd like a speed rushing DE. I'd like a run stuffing DT. I'd like a playmaking safety and a team can always get better at CB. I don't think we are maxed out with talent on any position on defense. I just fail to see how LB is more glaring a need than some others. While Adibi is a wild card as to what kind of player he'll be, I'm very comfortable with our depth at LB. Simply put, if Adibi misses the entire season, I think we can still have a good defense with Bentley starting in his place. How am I wrong about that? On the other hand, if Eugene Wilson gets injured, what the heck do we do at safety? If Pitts goes down and Studdard trots onto the field, our season is over!!

 

[Lucky]

So that leaves a pass rusher or a linebacker. That means someone that a lot of the people on this board are going to consider a reach or a risk.

This is a weak draft, as far as 1st round talent is concerned. A lot of teams will be "reaching". I would be more concerned if the Texans had a top 10 pick, and had to find a player who could live up to the contract.

If available, I would have no problem with the Texans selecting Malcolm Jenkins. And there should be plenty of pass rushers, linebackers, or even pass rushing linebackers available when the Texans select at #15. I'm not a big fan of Andre Smith as a LT, but he could be a dominant guard in this system. I mean, does anyone believe the Texans will go injury free on the offensive line for a second straight season? Kubiak and Smith should have little problem filling a need with value, relative to this class.

 

[Specnatz]

I'm sorry to disagree with the sunshine squad (again), but there are still needs on this team. A pass rusher is a very definite need. A playmaker at safety is a need. Depth on the offensive line is a need. A complementary back to Slaton is a need. And yeah, linebacker is a need.

Probably too many needs to fill in one draft, which is why I hope the Texans aren't finished in free agency. The Texans don't have to force a pick in the 1st round because they have so many needs to choose from.

Who is this sunshine squad? If you had seen my mock you would see that I notice these areas.

Dale was talking about round one. Geez!!!!!!

 

[Kaiser Toro]

Dale was talking about round one. Geez!!!!!!

Spec, easy with the sextuple exclamation of Geez, the member's inital post in this thread is not talking about round one.

I'm in general agreement with the boards and media that this team needs RB depth and help at safety. However, I don't get this almost universally held belief that it needs LB help- probably high in the draft.

 

[dalemurphy]

Who is this sunshine squad? If you had seen my mock you would see that I notice these areas.

Dale was talking about round one. Geez!!!!!!

I know... I happen to like the depth at LB while being very worried about RB, OL, and safety and that somehow makes me a shiny, happy fan.

I don't think you can find a fan more concerned with the center and guard position on this team nor anyone screaming that we need at least 2 more quality RBs on the roster.

What happened to all those guys with pink soap? If Richard Smith was so bad, as many thought, doesn't that assertion by definition mean that he was getting much less out of the talent on the defense than was available. Now that he's been replaced, the idea that much of the defense's problems were his is silly homerism. It seems that a lot of fans simply choose to take a pessimistic position until success hits them in the face.

 

[dalemurphy]

Spec, easy with the sextuple exclamation of Geez, the member's inital post in this thread is not talking about round one.

What I'm saying is that the LB position shouldn't be seen as anything more than the 4th priority for the draft, after:

RB, Safety, and interior OL.... that doesn't mean that we shouldn't take a LB in the first if he's the BPA. By the same token though, I'd say that about WR, RB, and CB.

 

[Big Lou]

I know... I happen to like the depth at LB while being very worried about RB, OL, and safety and that somehow makes me a shiny, happy fan.

I don't think you can find a fan more concerned with the center and guard position on this team nor anyone screaming that we need at least 2 more quality RBs on the roster.

What happened to all those guys with pink soap? If Richard Smith was so bad, as many thought, doesn't that assertion by definition mean that he was getting much less out of the talent on the defense than was available. Now that he's been replaced, the idea that much of the defense's problems were his is silly homerism. It seems that a lot of fans simply choose to take a pessimistic position until success hits them in the face.

I agree with the thought that Bush should be expected to get more out of what we have. I think this will be a very heavy Defensive Draft, and since Gibbs got what he wanted last year with Brown and Slaton, I think Bush will get what he wants as will Kollar.

With all of that said I think that the Texans can afford to and will invest several second day picks on Offense. I see a RB and OG/C bieng taken in the 4th. With another project very late in the draft. I also really think that Kubiak will take a QB in the 5th. I really could see him end up with McGee. He may see himself in the kid.

Bottom line the Defense better have improved with out one position change with the change of coaches. They were 22nd in total yards allowed. They need to move to around 14-18 in total defense before changing anything on the roster or they won't be making the playoffs again.

I'm drinking the Koolaid and I feel that Bush will get it done. Is it football season yet.........

 

[Kaiser Toro]

I know... I happen to like the depth at LB while being very worried about RB, OL, and safety and that somehow makes me a shiny, happy fan.

I don't think you can find a fan more concerned with the center and guard position on this team nor anyone screaming that we need at least 2 more quality RBs on the roster.

What happened to all those guys with pink soap? If Richard Smith was so bad, as many thought, doesn't that assertion by definition mean that he was getting much less out of the talent on the defense than was available. Now that he's been replaced, the idea that much of the defense's problems were his is silly homerism. It seems that a lot of fans simply choose to take a pessimistic position until success hits them in the face.

That is certainly a narrative that one can offer. Or one could offer that our current LB corps is mostly signed through 2010, Adibi is 2011, and that we hope they progress and remain healthy. You mentioned it in a previous post, but do you believe a word that comes from our team on the health of the Texan players?

2009 - Ryans, Thompson
2010 - Bentley, Diles, Coley

 

[dalemurphy]

That is certainly a narrative that one can offer. Or one could offer that our current LB corps is mostly signed through 2010, Adibi is 2011, and that we hope they progress and remain healthy. You mentioned it in a previous post, but do you believe a word that comes from our team on the health of the Texan players?

2009 - Ryans, Thompson
2010 - Bentley, Diles, Coley

I think I can discern when Kubiak is blowing smoke about injuries now. That being said, it really pisses me off the way he handles it. So, I'm working off the assumption that Diles and Adibi are healthy. Obviously, I would expect the organization to know better. If there are health concerns with those two then it obviously becomes a greater priority.

Since you brought up contracts. If 2010 is uncapped then DRyans won't be eligible for FA until 2012. And, I believe Diles and Coley's opportunity to reach UFA may be delayed further as well. Just something to keep an eye on . What an interesting season this is going to be for a number of reasons!

 

[Kaiser Toro]

I think I can discern when Kubiak is blowing smoke about injuries now. That being said, it really pisses me off the way he handles it. So, I'm working off the assumption that Diles and Adibi are healthy. Obviously, I would expect the organization to know better. If there are health concerns with those two then it obviously becomes a greater priority.

Since you brought up contracts. If 2010 is uncapped then DRyans won't be eligible for FA until 2012. And, I believe Diles and Coley's opportunity to reach UFA may be delayed further as well. Just something to keep an eye on . What an interesting season this is going to be for a number of reasons!

Yes, that is one to way interpret the result of these contracts expiring, the other is are they good or healthy enough to re-sign, even with out the protection of IF in regards to an uncapped year? I personally do not think so and is another reason why we would need to fill that gap early in the draft.

You are looking for reasons why LB early, and they are all over the place.

 

[dalemurphy]

Yes, that is one to way interpret the result of these contracts expiring, the other is are they good or healthy enough to re-sign, even with out the protection of IF in regards to an uncapped year? I personally do not think so and is another reason why we would need to fill that gap early in the draft.

You are looking for reasons why LB early, and they are all over the place.

Look at the contracts for my priority positions.

1. RB: Slaton 2011, Moats 2009, and CBrown 2009 (nobody else exists)
2. S: EWilson 2011, DBarber 2010, BHarrison 2009 (nobody else exists)
3. C/G: Pitts 2009, Myers 2010, Briesel 2009, Studdard-who cares!, CWhite 2009

 

[Kaiser Toro]

Look at the contracts for my priority positions.

1. RB: Slaton 2011, Moats 2009, and CBrown 2009 (nobody else exists)
2. S: EWilson 2011, DBarber 2010, BHarrison 2009 (nobody else exists)
3. C/G: Pitts 2009, Myers 2010, Briesel 2009, Studdard-who cares!, CWhite 2009

This is why I believe that we need to address all of those positions in the first four rounds, but have not started a thread about everyone and their calling for a LB.

The unfortunate thing is that we have not addressed DE in FA, although some are saying we have.

 

[The Pencil Neck]

Drafting Oline wouldn't be just depth since Myers and Briesel are very limited athletes. They'd be competition and potential upgrades.

I was referring to Lucky's comment that we need O-Line depth. Even if we get a starter, we'd be fixing something that isn't the most broken.

As for RB, considering that even if Slaton is healthy for 16 games, we still need someone else to touch the ball 200 times from the backfield. I think a player that involved is worthy of a first round pick. Look around the league!!

I think there are going to be plenty of good RB's later in the draft that will perform more than admirably and I expect this coaching staff to be able to identify them.

By the way, other than A.Curry, there are no LBs likely to get drafted in the first round who have proven to be successful 3 down backers. Cushing, Matthews, Laurinitis, Maliluga... all have some questions. And, if we get a pure pass rusher like Maybin, Johnson, Orakpo, Brown... those guys won't be 3 down DEs either.

Like I said, anyone we pick at 15 is almost definitely going to be considered a reach by some if not most of the people on this board. I think that upgrading our LB corp is a good way to improve the whole defense.

 

[The Pencil Neck]

What is your problem with Bentley? By the way, the LB class is very deep this year. Why can't LB be filled later in the draft. Why won't Adibi and Diles see the field again. According to the coaching staff, Adibi is healthy and Diles will be 100% for minicamp.

I think Bentley is a good backup. And right now, I think he's a better SAM than Diles.

I've heard that guys were healthy from this coaching staff before. And sometimes they were, and sometimes they weren't. I like Adibi. I think he could be a really good LB. But he had nothing but health issues all last year. I don't feel comfortable that's going to change.

Diles broke his leg running. That worries me.

I think we could use a lot of things of defense. I'd like a speed rushing DE. I'd like a run stuffing DT. I'd like a playmaking safety and a team can always get better at CB. I don't think we are maxed out with talent on any position on defense. I just fail to see how LB is more glaring a need than some others. While Adibi is a wild card as to what kind of player he'll be, I'm very comfortable with our depth at LB. Simply put, if Adibi misses the entire season, I think we can still have a good defense with Bentley starting in his place. How am I wrong about that? On the other hand, if Eugene Wilson gets injured, what the heck do we do at safety? If Pitts goes down and Studdard trots onto the field, our season is over!!

The thing is... at 15, what's available to us? Probably not a safety that's not a huge reach. Probably not a DE that's not a huge reach. Probably not a DT that's not a huge reach.

Maybe a corner.

Probably a LB.

And that's why everyone is calling for a LB. That's probably going to be the best defensive player available at the time we draft. And that's probably what we're going to draft.

 

[threetoedpete]

Offensively, I'd look at Michael Oher if he slips or Jeremy Maclin if he's available.

Defensively, I think the BPA is going to come down to Peria Jerry or Brian Cushing. I wonder how they'll rate Vontae Davis and Alphonso Smith though. Could get a talented DE/OLB at this spot but I have no idea how to project them.

I saw where Oher switched agents....do you hear any cross talk as to why he switched ?


Well they could do anything. Got seven weeks to go. Kubes might fall in love with an offensive weapon. They may fall in love with Michael Johnson. They may fall in love with Orackpo....

If Ayers is there and he's the style of DE they want , I do not see how the signing of a four sack a year safe guard guy precludes them for taking Ayers. Not Robert Ayers fault every one had him under rated at the beginning of the process. But if you do that....unless you take a Jacoby Jones Prospect with great numbers.....you got Will guys and you got SAM guys....but not guys who can do both at a very high level.

I think Cushing is as close as you can get to a guy who can cover both sore spots at OLB just in case one of them can't go in September. I don't know what a high priority The staff place on that. What I know is what they looked like with out Dilles or Adibi in the line up. There was a considerable drop off. Not just at linebackers, but the drop off was like a virus infecting the whole defensive squad.

 

[GP]

If I'm picking a Safety...it's going to be he's the BEST safety prospect out there. He's a lock. He's a stud.

I'm not going to sift through several mediocre Safeties and pick the best one out of the bunch. It's arguable that Jenkins is a "sure-fire stud" as an NFL Safety. So...outside of Jenkins, who is there at 15 that we get as a Safety?

Dale: The first four rounds have been considerably better for Smithiak than it was for Capers/Casselry. If you have those four spots as our highest four priorities, then I would say you're pretty on-target. It's just the issue of which of those four spots, at pick 15, offers the highest talent value.

Pete: Oher isn't going to be at pick 15. He's a big body, with good footwork, long reach, and is easily a Top 10 guy.

This is much ado about nothing.

Practically, looking at what players are likely to be gone before we pick at 15...it appears that LB will offer 2 or 3 guys who are strong "Round 1 talent" guys. As long as we keep drafting solid, fundamentally strong football players where they should be drafted, I don't care if we take a LB, a Safety, or a Punter. Well, maybe not a Punter at pick 15. Not when you have a 4th-down converting machine like Matt Turk!

 

[bckey]

If we traded down 10 spots and took Unger in the first, I'd be freakin' ecstatic!! Then we'd have a second, two 3rds, two 4ths, and two 5ths to grab RBs, Safeties, a speed rusher, and whatever else we are in the mood for. That would be ideal!!

I'd take Alex Mack over Unger. I've been wanting this guy in a trade down. He is a beast. If we stay at 15 because we can't find a trading partner then it will probably be LB or CB.

 

[beerlover]

I'm in general agreement with the boards and media that this team needs RB depth and help at safety. However, I don't get this almost universally held belief that it needs LB help- probably high in the draft. Someone explain to me why LB is such a major need for this team!- In other words, why is Adibi and Diles going to fail and why isn't Bentley, Coley, and Thompson quality depth?

Because the Texans linebackers scare nobody. Even DeMeco http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=5092 a great wrap up tackler is not known for bringing a physical presence (1 sack). Diles high motor overachiever coming off a broken leg lacks length, speed & is less than ideal size to play SLB (1 sack). Adibi is off the field more than on, health related, injurys & scheme, is a slimed down coverage WLB who has yet to show he can hold up against the run (0 sacks) back-up's Devin Bentley & Chaun Thompson ea. w/one sack, thats a mind boggling 4 sacks out of the entire group for last season & you "don't get this almost universally held belief that it needs LB help"? God help you man.

Frankly Frank, I don't get why the Texans changed to a 4-3 but surely this scheme is not as pathetic as it seems, & don't call me Shirley. Please address this early & often in the draft. Give me some of those Steeler type LB's who can press, sack the QB & generate intimidation themeselves. I'm sick & tired of watching the Steelers have all the fun.

Its not that hard to identify players who can help improve a defense rapidly starting with the LB position, just look @ what the Steelers did in the 2007 draft - 1st rd. pick #15 Lawrence Timmons 2nd rd. #46 LaMarr Woodley (same picks the Texans have 09) thats 16 1/2 sacks between the two, throw in James Harrison (16) thats 32 1/2 sacks. heck even James Farrior had as many sacks as the entire Texans LB's. pathetic & your satisfied w/Texans production, that they do not need to upgrade group as a whole

 

[dsorc]

How much did Bart Scott show as a rookie- he certainly isn't more talented than Adibi. What about Foote, Farrior, Woodley, L Briggs... I don't believe any of those guys, other than perhaps Woodley, has more athleticism or a better college career than Adibi. If a team is drafting a rookie in the first round it is saying that the depth is insufficient and/or the player is more talented and more likely to succeed than what is on the roster. Why would their be a belief that Cushing is going to be a better WLB than Adibi? wouldn't both guys be talented players with some question marks? And, with the good depth we have, why is it a neccessary pick?

Personally, I think that if we draft a LB it won't be to replace Adibi but to play opposite him. Let Adibi and Diles compete for the WLB spot and get a true SLB opposite them. Adibi and Diles both showed promise last year at times but neither is a sure thing and both have injury concerns. Nothing wrong with hedging our bets here. What's the worst that can happen really? If both Diles and Adibi are healthy and as good as we fans want them to be we should have a nice 3 man rotation on the outside that will keep everybody fresh and aggressive. We have some good depth but we don't have much top of the line talent at the position. And outside of Chaun Thompson we don't have any natural SLBs. (Diles is more of a MLB or WLB)

There is only one other spot where I feel we absolutely need a starter and that's SS. OG/C can be improved but the starters there are at least adequate. The rest of our draft is going to address primarily depth which is a very good thing and something this FO deserves credit for. Draft will probably go SS, SLB and OG/C early and BPA the rest of the way.

 

[dalemurphy]

Because the Texans linebackers scare nobody. Even DeMeco http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=5092 a great wrap up tackler is not known for bringing a physical presence (1 sack). Diles high motor overachiever coming off a broken leg lacks length, speed & is less than ideal size to play SLB (1 sack). Adibi is off the field more than on, health related, injurys & scheme, is a slimed down coverage WLB who has yet to show he can hold up against the run (0 sacks) back-up's Devin Bentley & Chaun Thompson ea. w/one sack, thats a mind boggling 4 sacks out of the entire group for last season & you "don't get this almost universally held belief that it needs LB help"? God help you man.

Frankly Frank, I don't get why the Texans changed to a 4-3 but surely this scheme is not as pathetic as it seems, & don't call me Shirley. Please address this early & often in the draft. Give me some of those Steeler type LB's who can press, sack the QB & generate intimidation themeselves. I'm sick & tired of watching the Steelers have all the fun.

Its not that hard to identify players who can help improve a defense rapidly starting with the LB position, just look @ what the Steelers did in the 2007 draft - 1st rd. pick #15 Lawrence Timmons 2nd rd. #46 LaMarr Woodley (same picks the Texans have 09) thats 16 1/2 sacks between the two, throw in James Harrison (16) thats 32 1/2 sacks. heck even James Farrior had as many sacks as the entire Texans LB's. pathetic & your satisfied w/Texans production, that they do not need to upgrade group as a whole

That's pretty disingenuous to compare Pittsburgh LBs to Houston. None of those guys you mentioned would play LB for us. And to compare sack totals between a 3-4 and a 4-3 team at LB is particularly ridiculous.

Traditionally, good 4-3 defenses need Lbs that can chase and tackle- that's about it. The concentration of money and playmakers on most 4-3 defenses is the DL and the secondary.

Furthermore, I'm not sure what Brian Cushing has in common with Lamar Woodley or James Harrison.

 

[El Tejano]

Because the Texans linebackers scare nobody. Even DeMeco http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=5092 a great wrap up tackler is not known for bringing a physical presence (1 sack). Diles high motor overachiever coming off a broken leg lacks length, speed & is less than ideal size to play SLB (1 sack). Adibi is off the field more than on, health related, injurys & scheme, is a slimed down coverage WLB who has yet to show he can hold up against the run (0 sacks) back-up's Devin Bentley & Chaun Thompson ea. w/one sack, thats a mind boggling 4 sacks out of the entire group for last season & you "don't get this almost universally held belief that it needs LB help"? God help you man.

Frankly Frank, I don't get why the Texans changed to a 4-3 but surely this scheme is not as pathetic as it seems, & don't call me Shirley. Please address this early & often in the draft. Give me some of those Steeler type LB's who can press, sack the QB & generate intimidation themeselves. I'm sick & tired of watching the Steelers have all the fun.

Its not that hard to identify players who can help improve a defense rapidly starting with the LB position, just look @ what the Steelers did in the 2007 draft - 1st rd. pick #15 Lawrence Timmons 2nd rd. #46 LaMarr Woodley (same picks the Texans have 09) thats 16 1/2 sacks between the two, throw in James Harrison (16) thats 32 1/2 sacks. heck even James Farrior had as many sacks as the entire Texans LB's. pathetic & your satisfied w/Texans production, that they do not need to upgrade group as a whole

Amen. Our rivals, the Titans, have these kind of LBs and they enjoyed some success. It wasn't their defense that lossed in the playoffs.

 

[dalemurphy]

Amen. Our rivals, the Titans, have these kind of LBs and they enjoyed some success. It wasn't their defense that lossed in the playoffs.

Huh?, name the amazing Titan LBs and how about including the round they were drafted in. Also, perhaps you can look at how they produced as rookies and first year starters so that you can do a side by side comparison with Adibi and Diles... don't forget to include Demeco Ryans.

 

[beerlover]

That's pretty disingenuous to compare Pittsburgh LBs to Houston. None of those guys you mentioned would play LB for us. And to compare sack totals between a 3-4 and a 4-3 team at LB is particularly ridiculous.

Traditionally, good 4-3 defenses need Lbs that can chase and tackle- that's about it. The concentration of money and playmakers on most 4-3 defenses is the DL and the secondary.

Furthermore, I'm not sure what Brian Cushing has in common with Lamar Woodley or James Harrison.

the premise none of those LB's could play for the Texans is ridiculous.

Also I doubt Frank Bush plays a traditional 4-3 but he needs playmakers to do it.

for your information I'm not on the Cushing bandwagon either but the big thing going for him was he played some @ DE so he does have pass rushing skills that does translate to Woodley or Harrison, although I'm much higher on English or Sintim (SAM).

I don't care the Steelers play a 3-4 the fact is they addressed need @ LB position early in the 07 draft that transferred to a SB in just two years.

 

[BigBull17]

That's pretty disingenuous to compare Pittsburgh LBs to Houston. None of those guys you mentioned would play LB for us. And to compare sack totals between a 3-4 and a 4-3 team at LB is particularly ridiculous.

Traditionally, good 4-3 defenses need Lbs that can chase and tackle- that's about it. The concentration of money and playmakers on most 4-3 defenses is the DL and the secondary.

Furthermore, I'm not sure what Brian Cushing has in common with Lamar Woodley or James Harrison.

While its not totally fair to compare 3-4 LB's to 4-3 Lb's, the fact that we have 4 sacks as a whole unit is very pathetic. VERY. Its hard to be that inept at rushing the passer. When you watch them blitz, it makes you want to cry because you know they have no chance at doing anything. Its even worse when you think about our starting LB's returning 2 sacks in a 16 game season. 2!!!!

 

[dalemurphy]

the premise none of those LB's could play for the Texans is ridiculous.

Also I doubt Frank Bush plays a traditional 4-3 but he needs playmakers to do it.

for your information I'm not on the Cushing bandwagon either but the big thing going for him was he played some @ DE so he does have pass rushing skills that does translate to Woodley or Harrison, although I'm much higher on English or Sintim (SAM).

I don't care the Steelers play a 3-4 the fact is they addressed need @ LB position early in the 07 draft that transferred to a SB in just two years.

English can't play for us either. You don't seem to comprehend that the OLB in a 3-4 has basically nothing to do with any LB position in a 4-3 defense. Also, it's silly to compare sacks as a measuring stick for their success. First, the goal of our 4-3 is for the Dl to make the plays. Second, I'll grant you that Richard Smith was a fool and our defense was hideous last year while Pittsburgh's was awesome. That being said, I don't think the primary reason for the disparity between the two defenses was the LB play. I tend to think it was Dick Labeau vs. Richard Smtih.

Most great 403 defenses only pick up a few sacks per season from their LBs. All four Steeler LBs will rush the QB much more than any Texan LB will... it's just a difference in schemes. Perhaps you're in love with 3-4 defenses but that won't change the fact that we won't have one.

 

[Texans_Chick]

Needs in order of priority:

1. safety- a 6th rounder that played well on special teams is the defacto starting SS and our only backup is Brandon "I just got my nails done" Harrison.

2.RB- Ryan Moats, Chris Brown, and Cecil Sapp are the only backs other than Slaton on the roster. One has a bad back, one is a FB, and the other is just not any good.

3. C/G- We have two moderately talented journeyman types starting at C and RG... Then, our primary backup guard needs a spotter just to tie his own shoe (Studdard!)

4. Take your pick: DE, DT, LB, CB

I don't know how anyone can even dispute that LB is no higher than 4th. That being said, I do understand that the 4th priority could still get addressed in the first round, depending on how the talent falls and where we end up.

Okay, the problem I have with your assessment of priorities is that it ignores the reality of salary cap economics and value.

You have to look at how money has already been distributed on the team, what is make-do function and what is not.

Safety is not a position you typically draft in the first round moneywise--unless you have a guaranteed lock guy you can draft. Would I love to finally see solid safety play from the Texans? Yes. Do I think there is a safety in this draft who could be an impact player for the Texans? I dunno but it sure would be nice. I think think all the defensive play for the Texans has sucked--getting an impact player in linebacker is likely going to make a bigger difference than getting an impact player at safety.

Backup running back though a need is not something you want to pay a lot of salary cap money to so yes the Texans are going to get a free agent and a draft pick, but it would blow me away if it were higher than the third round.

C/G- I think you are a little harsh on Briesel based on where he came from. I've talked to a number of people who do analysis of line work who actually were pretty happy with his play. Would I like an upgrade at Center? Would I like to see more depth Sure. But the offense has already demonstrated that they can make-do with what they have. The defense is a catastrophe of gigantic proportions--we have no idea whether this staff can turn it around because they haven't been able to show much to demonstrate that they can.

DE-Do you really want to spend even more first round money at DE?

DT-This is a crap DT draft at the top.

CB-You can never get enough quality CBs in the AFC South but maybe there isn't good value where the Texans would be drafting.

I would like an upgrade at just about every position on the field but you have to pick and choose what you can do based on salary cap and triage of what is your most crucial issues and whether this draft is a one that can fix that issue.

 

[Mr. White]

Because the Texans linebackers scare nobody. Even DeMeco http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=5092 a great wrap up tackler is not known for bringing a physical presence (1 sack). Diles high motor overachiever coming off a broken leg lacks length, speed & is less than ideal size to play SLB (1 sack). Adibi is off the field more than on, health related, injurys & scheme, is a slimed down coverage WLB who has yet to show he can hold up against the run (0 sacks) back-up's Devin Bentley & Chaun Thompson ea. w/one sack, thats a mind boggling 4 sacks out of the entire group for last season & you "don't get this almost universally held belief that it needs LB help"? God help you man.

I think it's not that simple. Until we get a real D-Line, everyone is gonna suffer.

TJ and Amobi play on skates. I consider them 2 more offensive linemen because the LB's have to figure out how to get around these 2 guys if they want to make a play. I'm sure that hasn't helped much with the LB injury situation either, considering they keep getting driven into the LB's knees by opposing offensive lines.

Count me in with Dale.