[Pitt Gorilla]

Originally Posted by TwistedChief

I think the problem was there was a school of thought and complacency around the idea that "this defense can't be any worse." And yes, if you're the 32nd ranked defense, that's true. But you can be much worse because the goal is not defensive rankings but giving up fewer points. And whatever you thought about Ford and Houston, the guys made a lot of plays that changed the face of games this past season and forced the other teams to adjust. Do you really think Jones was going to have the success he did rushing the passer without those guys on the edge?

We just didn't have enough talent in my view to be a clear upgrade from last season all considered. Now I'm completely convinced we'll be better and potentially much better.

Sincere thank you for posting this. People suggested that losing Ford and Houston wouldn't hurt because "we can't get any worse", which of course is nonsense. We have to replace their production or we could very well be worse, even if not in terms of ranking. This trade helps to do that, without question.