Mason

That's the only freaking time Highsmith shows up is when Watt is out. Someone explain this, and it's not we change our D.

 

That's what has been so frustrating about Highsmith. He has had TJ Watt on the other side his entire career getting chipped, double teamed, lining tight ends up over him, having three players block him at times. Why can't Highsmith play at a high level more consistently and get to the quarterback more often? Watt draws most of the attention. You would think Highsmith would do more damage in those situations because he shows that he has the ability to dominate at times.

He's a good player, but it's hard not to question some things about him. If he played at a higher level more often, then Watt most likely wouldn't have to be the guy offenses game plan to stop all the time, and both guys would wreak havoc. Highsmith would draw more attention from the offense, and the defense would be better for it.

Well, at least they have finally won a couple games when Watt didn't play.

 

Add in the fact that Herbig has taken about a quarter of his snaps you would think Highsmith would have enough rest to make big impacts.
But truth is OLBs aren't what ails the defense. Queen continues to underplay his contract. If one of the standout LBs falls in the draft I'd be tempted in round 1.

 

Agreed.

I'm not assigning blame to Highsmith. I agree that there are multiple things wrong with the defense.

A defensive tackle capable of being a nose tackle taking on double teams needs to be drafted to help shore up the run defense. Of course this is dependent on what the defensive coordinator wants to run.

I agree that Queen has been a disappointment, but I do think that a stronger nose tackle would help to keep the inside linebackers clean and their performance would improve greatly. The backers wouldn't have the offensive linemen climbing to the second level nearly as often

Another cornerback that is a quality outside corner is necessary. Finding another one in free agency or the draft to have three excellent cornerbacks would be great.

I also would love to see a cover safety that can play well in shell coverage and still be able to slip into the slot as a nickel or can really matchup with tight ends would really help. Again, if the defensive line and run defense gets shored up, there is less need for second level defenders to be in the box. All this stuff builds upon the defense controlling the line of scrimmage and the running game. Then you can get the athletic freaks that can run to tackle and to cover and take the ball away.

Get stronger at the line of scrimmage. Get younger, and faster behind it.