(01-22-2023, 12:36 PM)rfc17 Wrote: I dont understand why some say we shouldnt look at defensive line in the first round since we have already invested a lot of capital there of late (whether it be draft picks or free agents).  Unless you fully believe Travon will develop into a top pass rusher (and I'm not sure why anyone would think that based on his first year), rushing the passer continues to be our biggest need.  Yes we have put in effort and money to find one but you don't always hit on every draft pick or every free agent signing.  It is a critical need at arguably the 2nd most important position in football.  If there is a guy we think could become a really good pass rusher sitting there at the end of the first round you take him.  That trumps all other potential needs whether it be a guard or tight end or nickel or whatever.

I'm in total agreement with you and surprised more people on this Board don't see pass rushers as the top need for the off-season. The most consistent pass rusher on the team for much of the season was Smoot and he will likely be gone. Arden Key came on strong at the end of the season rushing the passer and he will also seek more money from another team via free agency. If Mike Caldwell intends to continue to utilize a 3-4 defense as his base, he needs to decide prior to the draft whether Walker can improve significantly as a pass rusher from this position. Can he learn better pass rush moves to justify keeping him at the Edge along with Josh Allen? The consensus opinion from those who know about evaluating talent is that Walker would be more effective playing defensive end in the 3-4. He would be a major asset in stopping the run and could still average 8-10 sacks per year by overpowering the lineman blocking him. 

As you said, pass rusher is arguably the 2nd most important position after quarterback. There is likely to be a very good pass Edge rusher on the Board at pick 24 since this is probably the deepest position along with cornerback in the draft. If they have a player from a different position of need (such as offensive lineman) rated highest they could still get a very good Edge in round 2. Most of our fans would likely be very happy with the 1st 2 rounds going like this:

Round 1: Torrence or Broderick Jones

Round 2: Anudike-Uzomah, Ojulari or Lukas Van Ness

                                
The team will also need to add a tight end to complement Engram as well as a run stopping defensive lineman and nickel-back during this draft. Teams coming off 4 wins in 2 seasons will always have several needs to address to be solid in all areas.

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