Antonio Smith, DT?

[Bigtinylittle]

Originally Posted by nunusguy

I don't see Barwin as having much of a future as a full-time 4-3 DE, here or anywhere.
If they'd bulk him up some to play against the rush it would probably compromise his quickness as an edge-rusher. Afterall his coomparisons to Jason Babin
really aren't that far off of the mark.
Truth is he probably should have been drafted by a 3-4 team where he could play from a standup position as an OLB if we're talking about a 3-down role for him ? Now if the Texans were to go to more 3-4 schemes, then his full-time participation in the defensive lineup starts to make more sense.

Well, we definately do have a problem with our pass rush, and Smith and Barwin were brought in to help with it. In Smith's case, so far the results have been underwhelming. That's not surprising, though. In more cases than not, higher dollar free agents tend to disappoint. That's why I don't agree with those fans who every year scream for us to sign one.

I think the ultimate solution to our pass rush problem, if we actually ever find one, will not come from Smith no matter where he is lined up. Most likely our solution will be a draft pick, and most likely not one from this year's class. Unless Barwin takes a huge step forward this year, our pass rush will remain in the bottom half of NFL teams.

[Joe Joe]

It is very reasonable that Barwin will get more sacks if he gets more PT and that he should be much improved with more upper body strength and having twice the experience going into this season versus last at DE. Mario had a low year for sacks. I'm not completely down on Okoye, and think he would do better in a platoon situation with Smith. I think the Texans can get the 4 more sacks needed to be in the top half of teams in sacks.