Richard Seymour: How Does He Fit Into Raider Defense?

Ok Raider nation... All is looking well, we just got an outstanding defender and five time Pro-Bowler to help bolster our questionable d-line.

But one problem. How does a 6'6'' 310 pound 3-4 defensive end fit into a 4-3?

I'm sorry but this trade really threw me off.

Do the Raiders play Burgess at D-end? Well at his size he will likely only be used in running situations and that doesn't bode well for him if he really plans on being the guy on top of the QB.

If he does play D-end he will likely take over Jay Richardson's spot being subed out for Trevor Scott on passing downs.

Does he play the 3-technique D-tackle spot. He's an ideal build, but that job is already taken by Tommy Kelly who actually does a pretty good job.

If he were to play that would send a definate message to Kelly. With Kelly and Seymour rotating in at the 3-technique we would definately get max production out of the position. Only problem is we are still neglecting the one or zero-technique nose-tackle that we've been forgeting to address for so many years.

Nose-tackle maybe?

I say pretty unlikely. Seymour doesn't have the build to play the nose and his talents may end up wasted if hes put there. He is too tall and too good of a pass rusher to play the position. But hey, if I'm wrong that would be pretty nice as we are still missing a true nose-tackle.

Is it possible we could be transitioning to more of a 3-4 defense? Its starting to seem more realistic every day. We have the linebackers especially with Ricky getting reps in the middle. We have the D-ends Tommy Kelly and now Richard Seymour.

Greg Ellis no doubt can play line-backer in a 3-4. We seem to be blitzing more than in the past. But still, were missing that all important nose-tackle.

With our defensive personnel why not run a hybrid defense if only to throw offenses off a little.

So Raider-nation if you think you have an explanation on how Seymour fits into our defense please enlighten me.

Though I guess we are likely to get a glimpse of how he will be used tonight.