Value of DT

[elements1985]

No question in my mind that Wilfork is one of the top 3 players on the Patriots. However -- and this was something talked about on Sports Hub -- has the value of the DT changed, considering that: A) nobody plays on grass anymore, and B) it's a pass first league?

If it has, then is it wise to make VW one of the highest paid players on the team?

Personally, I wouldn't mind franchise-tagging him, then shipping him off for a solid pick/player.

[TheGiantYankee]

Giants had NO DT

Canty Hurt in and Out
Bernard just Sucked
Robbins Old/Hurt In and out
Cofield Hurt In and Out
Alford Hurt

The opponents offensive line didn't even have to worry about the DT and I think that was a reason the secondary got exposed so much, It greatly helps when they have to worry about the DT and then RE or LE sneaks in

I would be throwing a party if the giants got Vince, Giants would have so much money at DT if they got him

"It’s just basically a slap in my face and it’s insulting to me to tell me I’m an okay player," said Wilfork, 28. "(The franchise tag) is decent money for most people out there. What I do, it’s okay. I don't look at myself as an okay player. I want a long-term deal or I want to be free. Point blank."

[kArSoN RyDaH]

what does grass have to do with playing defensive tackle? and why would you want to trade a top 3 player on your team? that doesnt make any sense.

[kEviN21]

A good DT allows his DE's and LB's to be better.

[gbpackers12]

The value of DT is extremely underrated.

[steelcityroller]

If you don't have good players at DT then you can forget getting good production from your DEs and LBs. I think DT is one of the most underrated positions in football.

[Romo2Bryant]

what does grass have to do with playing defensive tackle? and why would you want to trade a top 3 player on your team? that doesnt make any sense.

Yeah same here I was like ahhh, what? lol.

But I do think DT is the most underrated position. Which is why this draft is going to a very good one because there's Suh, G. McCoy, B. Price, D. Williams, T. Cody, M. Austin and a whole lot more.

[yanks08]

No question in my mind that Wilfork is one of the top 3 players on the Patriots. However -- and this was something talked about on Sports Hub -- has the value of the DT changed, considering that: A) nobody plays on grass anymore, and B) it's a pass first league?

If it has, then is it wise to make VW one of the highest paid players on the team?

Personally, I wouldn't mind franchise-tagging him, then shipping him off for a solid pick/player.

WTF???????

[darwin31]

what does grass have to do with playing defensive tackle? and why would you want to trade a top 3 player on your team? that doesnt make any sense.

I think the grass comment has to do with players being faster on turf where by nullifying the effect of slower DTs. Not that i necessarily agree with that.

I think the value of DTs are shown in that they are a big reason why the NFL has evolved into a pass first league. The ability of a DT duo to shut down a teams running game is key for a consistantly strong defense. Making a team one dimensional is almost like winning half the battle when it comes to football.

[ring91013144043]

With the evolution of the passing game, DTs have become less of run-stuffers and more pass-blocker engagers to free up DEs or LBs to get the sack. They are just as valuable, maybe even moreso than before, but their statistics are down so they're less recognized. Damn shame. They deserve it as much as the franchise quarterback, running back or receiver.

[mikantsass]

No question in my mind that Wilfork is one of the top 3 players on the Patriots. However -- and this was something talked about on Sports Hub -- has the value of the DT changed, considering that: A) nobody plays on grass anymore, and B) it's a pass first league?

If it has, then is it wise to make VW one of the highest paid players on the team?

Personally, I wouldn't mind franchise-tagging him, then shipping him off for a solid pick/player.

If you really think that controlling the line of scrimmage isnt important in football then you dont know the game.

[DCB/LAL]

Well according to the Redskins theirs is worth $100 million.

[Wilson]

It matters a ton in the 3-4 defense. You need guys on the line who can swallow up blockers and free up space for the line-backers.

[RaiderLakersA's]

Maybe Al Davis will trade this year's #1 for Wilfork? Crazier things have happened...

[debo]

I feel like this kid played WR in HS.

You can't replace a good/great DT easily. And there's a reason why for the most part the best teams have a good/great DT (or two). I think this year is a bit of an oddity in that the two best teams (Colts and Saints) don't have dominant DTs...but that's because they don't need one because their air game is so good.