The biggest question the 3-4 raises in terms of personnel is how the Packers will use their current starting defensive ends, Aaron Kampman and Cullen Jenkins. Generally speaking, the two outside linebackers are the primary pass rushers in a 3-4 scheme rather than the defensive ends.
Jenkins, a hybrid defensive tackle/end at 300 pounds, probably suits the end spot in a 3-4, whereas Kampman at 265 pounds may not. But with varying fronts, stunts and personnel at a coordinator's disposal, there's no need to necessarily lock a Pro Bowl talent like Kampman down into one spot.
"He's an outside rusher," McCarthy said. "Who's to say we're going to play him at the defensive end position? I think this is an excellent defense for Aaron, particularly in the base defense, and we'll also utilize Aaron more in the sub-packages."
McCarthy said he envisions Ryan Pickett as the primary nose tackle in the middle of the three-man line, but he did not address where players like defensive tackles Johnny Jolly and Justin Harrell might best fit.
Linebacker is perhaps the Packers' deepest position on defense, and on the surface Nick Barnett, A.J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop have the most experience inside, while Brady Poppinga and Brandon Chillar are more likely outside players.
