Los Angeles Rams: Pros and cons of potentially signing Clay Matthews
By Jason Reed
Pro: He is familiar with a 3-4 defense and is flexible
As we briefly mentioned in the first slide of this article, Matthews can be flexible for the Los Angeles Rams and could theoretically play inside linebacker on certain downs when needed. The reason that Matthews can do this is because of the Packers’ flexible defense scheme that is based on a 3-4 scheme.
When adding an outside linebacker the Los Angeles Rams need to consider who is going to thrive in the 3-4 scheme and who is more accustomed for a 4-3 scheme. For example, Jamie Collins is one of the best options available this offseason but is a much more natural fit in a 4-3 defense.
3-4 outside linebackers need to play like defensive ends and get to the quarterback when the team is bringing a five-man rush. What makes Matthews great is that he does not need to rush the quarterback every down and can truly do both.
Dante Fowler should be the outside backer that is reserved for the edge rush and rushes the quarterback on every single four-man rush. Matthews, on the other hand, is a swiss army knife that can certainly rush the quarterback but can drop into coverage when needed as well.
Having someone that can do both and is already familiar with playing that role in a 3-4 defense is going to make the transition seamless. There are very few options available that provide that same luxury.