I think it's better to have a void in depth than it is to have a void at the starter position. If we draft a player at 1 or 2 for RDE, like Iggy says, Devito could be a stopgap until that player gets up to speed. I think Devito is a solid role player - just like Douglas. But having him start at that position is not what I picture to be a long-term solution.
Yeah, Pupu and Devito could rotate, but Pouha would serve more of a hold-the-block type of purpose, while Devito can actually gain some penetration against a T or a G. That's sort of what I meant when I implied that he could step in for Douglas - they have a pretty similar skillset.
I'm a DeVito fan,Douglas was solid for us but not spectacular.I feel Devito can at least match Douglass performance.However Ellis is getting up there so there is still a need for DE.
Douglas was solid, but I don't think this team loses much starting DeVito/Pouha at DE... With that being said and given that we're going to likely lose Douglas and Ellis is entering his 11th season, I'd be surprised if a 3-4 DE wasn't drafted in either the first or second round at this point.
Agreed. Pouha is a space eater but DeVito and Douglas had a great time messing up plays by forcing OLinemen into the backfield. I think we bring in another DE or NT in this draft and Alualu seems like he will be right there for us at 61. Douglas was not even a full time starter here so if he can draw a big enough contract that can help us sign another depth player then I would call it a fair trade.
Douglas had a solid year for us, no doubt. Love to see the guy back but as others said, I'm sure Devito can handle things. I don't know much about Devito but was pleased to see him making big plays towards the end of the season.