Originally posted by NCommand:
This is a fair point. Whitner was 3rd on the team in tackles with 83 (62 solo) which is about 40-70 tackles less than both Willis/Bowman, respectively. So we would need to find an equal replacement for his run defense.
Ideally, we'd also like a taller/physical SS in the 6'2"+ range who, schematically, VF feels comfortable playing physical up tight at the LOS esp. in the RZ/EZ where Whitner was abused last year giving taller/bigger TE's and WR's free releases every single time (and in previous years as well).
That said, I don't think even a rookie would give up 14 TD's to be honest. This is an a HUGE liability and a year older, Whitner isn't going to suddenly get better.
Now, VF is an idiot himself for schematically matching Whitner up in this scenario every time and NEVER wavering from it despite forcing extra underneath coverage by Willis/Bowman/Brooks to help out. And we STILL got torched.
This is a VERY bad sign going forward and it needs to be fixed quickly. We all love Whitner's attitude and intangibles but this is a passing league (esp. against us - why bother running?) so no doubt, I believe HarBaalke will be looking to significantly upgrade the coverage not only at FS, SS but also RCB (Rogers).
Youi make some excellent points. Whitner is really good against the run but really needs some help in coverage, and is hopeless against TEs.
I'm really hoping that Nnamdi decides he wants a SB ring and decides to play for SF.
And I hope Baalke drafts both a FS AND a SS. A FS who could start and a SS who can cover, and who could take over for Whitner on 3rd down and in the Red Zone. Woodson might be able to fill that role for a year, if he's willing to take a pay cut and switch to part time duty.