New voices, whether from young players or new coaches, could unlock some untapped potential. Outside linebacker Zaven Collins has experienced it already with Sweat, who he described as "an awesome dude and great athlete," and Feeney.
"(Feeney) talks about things that some position coaches wouldn't talk about and gives us really good tips and tricks of what to think pre-snap," Collins said. "He's been around great pass rushers as well as great coordinators and good defenses. Learning everything that he's teaching us is awesome."
Some players have their starting roles on lock. Yet there are a handful of positions still up for grabs, especially on the defensive side of the ball. With the Cardinals moving on from Kyzir White, there's an open competition at inside linebacker. The cornerbacks will look to fill Sean Murphy-Bunting’s starting role, and a crowded defensive line room will be trimmed come Week 1 in New Orleans.
While players can separate themselves during this time of year, Rallis is focused on using OTAs to improve technique and will save more in-depth scheme conversations for training camp. With so many new faces, Collins echoed that point, mentioning a clear desire from his teammates to grow as a defense.
Rallis has grown accustomed to change in the NFL. New faces don't faze him. But adaptability, a term often used during Rallis' time with the team, is a good thing. These new additions will open up a world of opportunities for a scheme which has been applauded for its unique traits.
That's one of the reasons why Rallis is optimistic about his new-look defense.
"I love what we did," Rallis said. "We brought in really good talent and competition, and that's going to help, hopefully, get us to play some better defense."