From The Inside - Our Front Five
 

We've had three first rounders on the DL for years, plus a situational backup. We used to count on our ILB's to complete the plugging up of the middle.

Can Belichick do his magic with ther current set of three first rounders 3, 22, and 12) and a situational backup? Belichick's spent the draft choices on getting us young ILB studs (#10 and #62). Spikes would also have been a first rounder if not for his ridiculous 40 time.

We'll see where we are after the season, but I suspect that one of next year's firsts(probably the first pick we make) will be on a top DE to complete the revitalization of the DL.

Re: From The Inside - Our Front Five
 

Of course, Bill has also shown that he has no problem passing on a DE if he doesn't fit the scheme, a la Jared Odrick. I think a lot depends on who is available. Personally, the DE class doesn't overly excite me. Way too many 1-gap-shooters and not enough 2-gap-controllers.

Re: From The Inside - Our Front Five
 

Probably the answer to why did we trade Seymour when we did? How else could we get a shot at a top pick?

I was thinking, we have some weaknesses, but we could have some spectacular play too. As long as DL and OL aren't crippled (I think we'll be fine) we might see some spectacular plays in our LB and DB corps.

And some mistakes, we will have rookie mistakes.

Re: From The Inside - Our Front Five
 

Gonna throw some names out there...Riddick Parker, Brandon Mitchell, Bobby Hamilton, Anthony Pleasant, Dan Kleko, Jarvis Green, Keith Traylor, Mike Wright...

Point being, the defense has been dominant with mediocre defensive linemen in the past. No knock on Green or Wright, but I'd rate neither as an ideal starter in a 3-4. I think that as long as Big Vince stays healthy, this line will be O.K.

And I fully agree that Seymour trade was initiated with new D-line blood in mind. Assuming Oakland picks in the 8-15 range next year, the team will have the flexibility to target a player pretty easily if the right guy emerges.