The O-line is still the most pressing need to improve the team, a repeat performance from our last years squad is not acceptable to take this team to the next level. The O-line by themselves almost cost the Pack the season. Clifton represents maintaining last years performance (Jerad Allen) and will not be available due to injury when we will need him most, negating anything gained. Left guard position is not strong at all with Colledge, Spitz has had back surgery (Justin Harrell) and with the Tauscher still not signed the right tackle position is still not certain. Our O-line has not been improved, maintained maybe, not improved. Last years performance was will not get the Pack any further this year.
Our secondary that is healthy is further along with talent and skill players than our O-line. I would still argue that a 3-4 defense foundation (like the O-line) is the LBs. Not only are we looking at a rookie/Brad Jones opposite of Mathews, but the position next to Barnett (Hawk/Chillar/Bishop) is uncertain and weak. Without a solid group of LBs, you will not see the fruits of any upgrading in your secondary if the better QBs in this league have time to throw the ball, advantage goes to the offense.
First step is to get the QB to throw the ball before is he ready, thus eliminating the offensive advantage and a good CB a chance. Pressure has to come first, lack of pressure will make even Woodson/Collins look average (Cardinal game).
Priority for the Pack:
1 - O-line, an upgrade of some sorts (Iupatai), able backup for LT and future LT
2 - LBs - must get good consistent run stops and pass rush with a solid group of 4 as the foundation of our 3-4 defense. Need depth at the OLB position and possible starter and a starter opposite of Barnett at the ILB position.
Third, and this is if we can do anything at all, CB and safety. In the draft if a better return man, running back, or receiver is available I would chose the biggest impact over need.
Our secondary that is healthy is further along with talent and skill players than our O-line. I would still argue that a 3-4 defense foundation (like the O-line) is the LBs. Not only are we looking at a rookie/Brad Jones opposite of Mathews, but the position next to Barnett (Hawk/Chillar/Bishop) is uncertain and weak. Without a solid group of LBs, you will not see the fruits of any upgrading in your secondary if the better QBs in this league have time to throw the ball, advantage goes to the offense.
First step is to get the QB to throw the ball before is he ready, thus eliminating the offensive advantage and a good CB a chance. Pressure has to come first, lack of pressure will make even Woodson/Collins look average (Cardinal game).
Priority for the Pack:
1 - O-line, an upgrade of some sorts (Iupatai), able backup for LT and future LT
2 - LBs - must get good consistent run stops and pass rush with a solid group of 4 as the foundation of our 3-4 defense. Need depth at the OLB position and possible starter and a starter opposite of Barnett at the ILB position.
Third, and this is if we can do anything at all, CB and safety. In the draft if a better return man, running back, or receiver is available I would chose the biggest impact over need.