That's a great debate..
Even though we saw great defenses filled with stars in the past, I think that in the present a great defense is easier to be done with depth.
Our defense is the best example, we have a solid group in every position, versatility and a few good backups. We have only one all pro, which is Gilmore.
If we look the rest of the nfl, how many players by thenselfs take a defense to the next level? Mack, Donald, earl Thomas, Bobby wagner, Gilmore, cox, watt, von Miller (getting older) and a only a few more. And if you pay then top dollar (top pass rusher is the best example) you limit the money to spend in the rest of the defense and to the whole team