Five reasons New York Jets should go to a 4-3 base defense
By Nolan Rich
Oct 9, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New York Jets outside linebacker Darron Lee (50) makes a tackle on Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Jesse James (81) during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. Pittsburgh won 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
Moving Darron Lee to his true position
2016 was a mixed bag for New York’s first round selection Darron Lee. He flashed signs that he could develop into a solid coverage linebacker, but his size makes it difficult for him to be an anchor as an inside linebacker in the 3-4 where he played most of his snaps last season.
One way to help Lee develop and utilize him better in coverage is to put him at the weak-side outside linebacker in a 4-3 scheme. This would allow him to use his speed coming off the edge in blitz packages, but more importantly, protects Lee in the running game.
This is because, on the outside, it will give Lee more space to work with instead of having to worry about centers or guards that can get to him on the second level and take Lee out of the play.
Coming out of Ohio State, many scouts felt that Lee would be best suited as a 4-3 outside linebacker. With a first round pick invested in Lee, it only makes sense for New York to but their talented young linebacker in the best position to succeed.