I wonder if the trend isn't swinging from DL back to LB

[joemorrisforprez]

We all remember the famous Ernie Accorsi line ("you can't have too many pass rushers").

And for a long time, I think that was true, but I wonder if the trend isn't swinging back to the linebackers?...... the rules have changed, and tight ends have become big-play offensive weapons (see: New England).

Running backs that can catch the ball are also in vogue (McCoy, Rice, Forte).

I think more than ever, a linebacker that can cover a TE, chase down a RB, and rush the passer is now more important than a disruptive DL.

[Drez]

Depends on the defense.

[BlueBlooded1979]

Nope, 4 guys that can rush the passer is the most important part of any defense, even the 3-4. You could have Derrick Brooks (one of the greatest cover LBs in history) and without a pass rush he will not be useful.