While the Texans had one of the worst defenses in football last year, they also have a handful of big name performers; players who were drafted to play in a 4-3 defense.
On Friday, new linebackers coach Reggie Herring spoke about how the team plans to integrate Brian Cushing, DeMeco Ryans, and Mario Williams into Wade Phillips’ new 3-4 defense.
“We’re probably going to take a look at Brian inside at the Mike ‘backer position, strongside on the tight end, and then DeMeco will be the weakside Mo inside ‘backer,” Herring said via the team’s website.
When Phillips took over, he wasn’t sure where Cushing would fit. This decision makes sense; he may not have the speed to play on the outside. The position Cushing is moving to could lead to reduced stats. Ryans is in a better spot to rack up tackles and the outside linebackers piling up sacks.
Connor Barwin and Jesse Nading will move to outside linebacker, while Mario Williams will remain at defensive end. For now.
“I think Mario falls into the same category of we’ll start him out at defensive end and then see where he goes,” Herring said. “Hopefully that’ll work out there, and if it doesn’t, then we’ll find another place to put him.”
The Texans can only hope they get enough practice time this offseason to get their players ready.