I'm of the opinion that we should be more concerned about the rush defenses as stated in your second paragraph. As mentioned in this thread, last year we didn't not have one dominant rusher but was able to put of top 6 sacks numbers last year with a committee approach from multiple solid to good contributors. The major point we need to focus on as a defense is stopping the run. That comes from Odrick being the big end presence we hope he should be. Tackling needs to be much better as well. If Odrick and and Skuta can set the edge well; then Poz, Cyprien and House should should be putting up ridiculous tackling numbers. The rush defense will fall on those three guys to make the tackles either in the open field or the gap.

 

The pass rush will be solid. I think the d-line overall is too solid to have us back in the 20 sack range lol. I think this team has the ability to at least put up another 40 sacks campaign which is still top 15. The biggest key will be if Sergio has the ability to play the deep middle to a average to above average level. That has been the biggest issue for this team for the past 3 years. If that spot improves to above average play they you are looking at a top 15 defense. 

 

Food for though, Seattle only put up 37 sacks which is 20th in the league. Their back end is their strengthen. If our secondary has improved which i think it has, we will add that extra second to generate the sacks and pressure.

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