[Speculation] Should the Texans Make a Trade for an Experienced (and Light) DE?

[papabear]

This is what scares me about this offseason. The general consensus is that we're close. I agree with that 100%, but what scares me is that we think we are closer than we really are. I'm worried we start to reach to get that one guy to put us over the top, and it ends up setting us back.

Dumerville, Kampman, and I'm sure many others would get me very excited...but if we give up too much and they don't work out....well we are probably starting all over again with a new scheme and coach.

[Joshua]

Originally Posted by papabear

This is what scares me about this offseason. The general consensus is that we're close. I agree with that 100%, but what scares me is that we think we are closer than we really are.

Watching the AFC Championship game and how the Ravens and Steelers were just destroying each other on seemingly every play, I began to think we are not as close as we think. Both teams bring a level of physicality, intensity and intimidation that I don't think we're ready to compete against. Reminded me of why both of these teams mopped the floor with us.

[popanot]

I don't think we're that close, but I also don't think we should make drastic or sweeping changes. I wouldn't have a problem parting ways with a single (1) draft pick (preferably a #2 or less) for a player of Dumerville or Kampman's talent. I don't see that as a 'selling the farm' or a 'we're one player away' type move, because I think they'd give us a 3 or 4 years of quality service. About the same amount of time as a rookie contract - and they're a known commodity.

[Keith]

Originally Posted by papabear

The general consensus is that we're close. I agree with that 100%, but what scares me is that we think we are closer than we really are.

Two words: Arizona Cardinals.

I understand they're from a different conference, but they underscore that sometimes the magic can happen.

As for the Steelers and Ravens (and to a lesser extent, the Titans), they're proof still that having a solid-to-spectacular defense is still the best way to make it deep into the playoffs. A concerted focus this offseason by the Texans to improve the defense is needed, and getting the right coaching staff in place has been step #1.

And we're entering Year Four of Kubiak. I'm as optimistic as ever for his success here, but it's time for results or we will be starting over soon anyway.

[HPF Bob]

The trade idea is a good thought but I'm guessing the Packers would want more in return than we are willing to give up. I doubt they'll realize until next July that some of their players may not fit a 3-4.

From what I am reading about Denver, they are not *switching* to a 3-4 but are planning to incorporate some 3-4 looks into their defense since they are low on good DLs and better on good LBs. But Dumervil would certainly not fit 3-4 (heck, he's barely a 4-3 DE as it is) and needs to be in only in passing situations since he simply lacks to size to succeed against the run.

As for using Dunta as trade bait, I think both the Broncos and the Packers are fairly well-set at the corners although both could use upgrades at safety (as do we). I can't see them valuing a player like Dunta as much as some other teams that are hurting for CBs.

[nunusguy]

Originally Posted by Keith

Two words: Arizona Cardinals.

Two teams: Tennessee & Indy. Do you really think the Cardinals would be any better than third place in the AFC Central either ?
We can win 10 or 11 games (look at the Pats), but fail to make the playoffs if we can't atleast go 500 in our own division. What we have to do is consistantly split (or better) with those guys, so whatever that takes ?

[cadams]

Originally Posted by nunusguy

Two teams: Tennessee & Indy. Do you really think the Cardinals would be any better than third place in the AFC Central either ?
We can win 10 or 11 games (look at the Pats), but fail to make the playoffs if we can't atleast go 500 in our own division. What we have to do is consistantly split (or better) with those guys, so whatever that takes ?

Indy is going to take a step back nest year. Their defense has always been sub par, and they have a new coach who is going to implement a new system. I predict that indy is no better than a 9 win team next year. As for the titans, I am not all that worried about them next year either. Haynesworth will either leave or get a long term deal. If he leaves that defense will be in trouble, if he gets a long term deal I bet his motor slows down a bit. If their defense can't keep teams under 17 points they will have to rely on the pass a lot more than they will want to, and Collins won't have another season like the did this year (which really wasn't spectacular, just mostly mistake-free), and if VY ends up starting they will have a hard time making 9 wins as well.

I am not saying the Texans are one piece away yet, but I don't think the division will be as tough next year as you do. I actually think Jacksonville could bounce back some, those two defensive ends, who were rookies this season, should take steps forward this coming season.

[da Bull]

Just to stir the pot some. If I recall, Lance Lierlein commented in his blog that the Broncos had less than desirable defensive tackles. Since they're switching to a 3/4 maybe they could use a d-tackle drafted to play in the 3/4, such as Travis Johnson. Admittedly, he hasn't played up to his draft position but most of his career he's played in a 4/3 (Richard Smith's) which may not have schemed to his strengths. Also, Dumervil may not project to do as well in a stand-up position...could there be a win/win situation here?

[HPF Bob]

Well, except that a 3-4 DT is supposed to be a bloated hog who clogs up traffic. In fact, the primary purpose of the d-line in a 3-4 is be like those big concrete boulders they put in front of department stores to keep thieves from driving through the glass doors. If you get any pass rush from them, so much the better. While Travis Johnson hasn't supplied much of a pass rush, he hasn't exactly been an unmovable boulder either.

[barrett]

wasn't TJ drafted as a 3-4 DE? I know he wasn't taken to play NT.