The rich got richer when the San Francisco 49ers added former Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. He joins a defensive front that includes NFL Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa and veteran Arik Armstead, creating one of the more intimidating units in the league.
Armstead recently joined NFL Network's NFL Total Access and was asked what makes the 49ers' defensive line so unique.
"We play with a certain style," Armstead explained to MJ Acosta and Ndamukong Suh. "We attack, we get off the ball, we run to the ball, we play with great effort, and it's really a team effort. We play for one another. We don't have selfish guys who are out there just trying to get stats, but we're working together, and we're going out there to dominate, really.
"And we're a talented bunch that works extremely hard, and when we go out there, we lay it all on the line. So I love playing with this group. It's been a lot of fun going into my ninth year here."
Suh was in talks to join the 49ers last year. He eventually opted to sign with the Eagles but admits the thought of reuniting with 49ers defensive line coach Kris Kocurek was tempting. Kocurek coached Suh in Detroit for five seasons (2010-14).
Suh asked Armstead about his D-line coach and why his players admire him.
"Kris, for me, really, his belief in me, and I know that he cares, his passion for what we do," Armstead shared. "And playing for a coach who gives you confidence, who believes in you, that goes a long way. I hadn't had that in a long time. And so that's what really opened it up for me, going out there and taking the field for somebody who believes in me and wants to see me be successful."
Armstead added, "I think he allows people to use their skill set. He's going to bring in guys that can play his style of football, and he's going to put you in position to be successful. We don't overcomplicate things. We don't think too much. We line up, we put our hand in the ground, we play physical. And being able to play free and not have to think too much and so many assignments and all those things, I think, allow for people to see us fly around out there, and that's what you guys see on game day."