4-4 Question

I run a 4-2 5 and our twin monsters (what your calling OLB's) just align wider, are the key to our defense.
They have 3 assignments on every play (contain on the sweep, pitch on the option, flats on the pass). They have to be able to run, really thump people on run support, and run with TE's and WR's in pass coverage schemes. They are the best athletes on the D, not our CB's per most schemes. Our DE's are big, physical guys who crash in 99% of our schemes a la Jervon Kerse style players! Just my way of doing it, but have built a 76-23-1 record, 2 Division Championships, 7 playoff wins and the 1994 AFL Super Bowl with this philosophy. I like my DE's to be rangier (taller) than the average LB for the simple fact that coupled with his vertical leaping ability and his hands raised, he becomes something that has to be reckoned with on pass rush protection schemes. Hope this would help you in making your decision.

Coach Easton