It's a lot more about the "who" than the "how" when it comes to the Buffalo Bills' switch to a 4-3 defense this season. Who they can add to the defense will be far more important in determining their success than how they line up.
One key addition to the defense already is in house. The Bills hope Shawne Merriman can recover from an Achilles tendon injury that has ruined three of his last four seasons. Merriman can put his hand on the ground and rush off the edge as part of a four-man line in passing situations. He has the size and stoutness to hold the edge against the run as a strong-side linebacker.
The Bills need a good complement -- or two -- for Merriman, since his ability to stay healthy for a full season is a question mark.
The 4-3 defense gives the Bills flexibility in looking for solutions.
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