Searching for another Sapp - NFL: training camp preview

Three years ago, the space-eating buffet of Tony Siragusa and Sam Adams was a big factor in the Ravens' run to the Lombardi Trophy. Last season, the Buccaneers relied on their defense, which was powered by Warren Sapp's dominance, as they won the league title. Champions have used both two-gap and one-gap tackle schemes, but what is common among defensive alignments is this: Everybody wants a Sapp.

"There's no real trend at the position," says Chuck Banker, the Texans' director of pro scouting "Great defensive tackles always are in demand regardless of what style a team plays. You saw so many drafted in the first round because there was that kind of talent out there."

Of the six tackles selected in the opening round, one of them--Ty Warren--has been designated to play end in the Patriots' 3-4 setup. For the rookie tackles, learning their teams' schemes in training camp is critical, but it is equally important to show up in shape with a maximized package of size, strength and quickness.

Dewayne Robertson, Jets. None of the rookie tackles will face more pressure than Robertson, whom the Jets selected No. 4 overall to be a Sapp-like presence in their Bucs-like scheme. With veteran Josh Evans out indefinitely because of a league suspension, the Jets need Robertson to start right away.

Johnathan Sullivan, Saints. New Orleans hopes it has found an adequate replacement for La'Roi Glover, who left as a free agent a year ago. Sullivan has a starting job heading into camp; to keep it, all he has to do is show the athleticism and aggressiveness Norman Hand couldn't provide.

Kevin Williams, Vikings. Williams presence at nose tackle will give Chris Hovan more room to attack. They will be at their best working side by side once Williams gets his pass-rushing moves down. He will do for Hovan what Anthony McFarland does for Sapp.

Jimmy Kennedy, Rams. St. Louis took defensive tackles Damione Lewis and Ryan Pickett in the 2001 first round, so Kennedy probably will be third in the rotation behind them. A massive player who tries to overwhelm guards, Kennedy needs to be in good shape to get the proper explosion off the snap. Conditioning has been a concern with him in the past.

William Joseph, Giants. The Giants have a deep rotation and expect a solid pass rush from their ends, so Joseph can focus on his natural instincts against the run as the No. 3 tackle. He also is good insurance if Keith Hamilton doesn't rebound after missing much of last season with an Achilles' injury.

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