Brandon Short at Redskin Park today

[joecrisp]

Originally Posted by EEich

Hello 3-4?

Not out of the question, when you look at the personnel at D-line and linebacker if Short is signed.

On the d-line, both of the projected starters at defensive end, Philip Daniels (6-5, 288) and Renaldo Wynn (6-3, 292), are the ideal size to be solid defensive ends in the 3-4 scheme, with Griffin (6-3, 300)--ostensibly a tackle in the 4-3 or 46 scheme-- having the size and athleticism to play either end or tackle. Haley (6-4, 325) actually has better size for a nose tackle in the 3-4 scheme.

Looking at the linebackers (including the possibility of adding Short), they all have excellent size for 3-4 'backers-- especially on the outside, where Arrington and Washington (both around 6-3, 247) possess an ideal combination of size and athleticism, as well as demonstrated pass rush ability. Pairing Short (6-3, 253) with Trotter (6-1, 262), would give the Skins two solid tacklers in the middle. The idea of fielding such a dynamic foursome of linebackers has to be pretty appealing to Gregg Williams.

The only problem could be depth. If they moved to the 3-4 with Short on board, they would need to acquire at least one or two more solid backups in addition to Kevin Mitchell and Antonio Pierce. That's where they'd run into problems with cap room.

Overall, though, given the type of personnel they have on the defensive line, I think a move to the 3-4 would be a good thing. It's one way Williams would be able to generate a pass rush with the linebackers, while retaining the element of surprise-- which could be hampered if he is forced to use Arrington and/or Washington as down-linemen in passing situations.