Thread: Andrew Perloff's 2011 NFL predictions

Originally Posted by Dagan81

Obviously, we're set at linebacker, and we're doing pretty damn well at defensive line, though it's a shame that we don't have Tommie Harris playing like he used to years ago to serve as a good pass rusher as well as run stopper. He's like someone said in here a few days ago..."a shadow of his former self" since the knee injury he sustained against the Vikings in 2006. Three technique is a real possibility, as you said, Butka, to replace that void left by Harris.

Guys, is there any reason why Melton couldn't be used at that spot? He may have to bulk up a little to become a 3 down player but the guy seems to have the quickness off the ball that Harris used to have. Maybe he lacks the strength at 260lbs but then again he was drafted to be a DE. It was Gilbert who everyone thought would be Harris successor at the 3-tackle spot. Guess that didn't work out did it?

I can see us going that route in the first round if a guy who's too good to be true drop that far but overall I 'd say we have to address the Oline first and worry about the Dline second. Harris can still give us a couple more years of decent play provided we rotate him often. Like the song says, "He's not as good as he once was, but he's as good once as he ever was". The key to that spot until we find another Harris is to rotate it frequently to keep the guys fresh. But I do agree with you guys that badly need some push and penetration up the middle.