I am going the other way on the 3-4.
I don't think we have a NT or any lbs worth a damn. I am from the 4-3 mindset, I give you that. Please make me feel better that we have LB's that can run a 3-4.
We actually have a couple of big DT's that could easily play in the 3 line set. What I'm thinking though is we cut ties with Ellis and Smith sometime this summer and acquire a NT through FA or trade. The league is moving towards a 4-3 and so a lot of teams have a couple around that have trade value. Even more teams are playing both (Patriots), and coaches like to pick up any and all good prospects late or as UFAs and then unload them. Think Kyle Love. He'd start for a couple teams, yet he doesn't make much money and would be an ideal trade if the player was worth it for the a Patriots.
Jordan is going to be excellent as a 3-4 DE. I think one of the biggest factors in the decision to move to the 3-4 (outside of having an absolute **** DL) is Lofton being an absolute monster, and having him and Vilma on the field together will hopefully help plug the god awful rush defense we have. Loomis also went out and got that guy from Seattle (someone help me out with a name) who would be great as a pass rusher OLB in that system.
I wouldn't be surprised if Slay or Banks end up on the Saints roster this April. I guarantee you Payton took notice of Seattle while he watched the NFL Network from home every Sunday. They both fit that mold. Depending on who's there early and who's there in the mid rounds he could take a chance. I think by moving to a 3-4 Payton is saying no more DB blitzes... Should make an immediate difference even with the roster we have. Unfortunately it makes Harper obsolete.