Lavar, a DE?

[hurrykaine]

A lot of people - fans, media, and players have been raving about how excellent the skins defense has been without Lavar.

What I'm suggesting is nothing new, but how about we prime Lavar as a starting DE instead of linebacker. We're fine at the linerbacker position, assuming Pierce is resigned, and Barrow is back healthy.

Lavar's freelancing has certainly limited his effectiveness as a linebacker, however, there isn't much opportunity to freelance and miss assignments if you're a pass rush specialist.

G. Williams could also fit him in at outside linebacker in certain packages, but Lavar would primarily be the pass rushing DE.

What got me thinking on this was the fact that Dwight Freeney is only 6-1, 268 - which is 10 pounds heavier than Lavar and 2 inches shorter. Ron Warner, who has had a semi-decent year, is also of similar build (6'3", 270). Surely Lavar can put on 10-15 pounds, if necessary.

Lavar had 11 sacks when he played a 3rd down DE under Marvin Lewis - there's no reason why he can't replicate that.

Best part of all, we wouldn't need to shell out big bucks to acquire a free agent DE, or use a 1st round draft pick on DE - we could use it for a DT or for the offense.