Jason Hatcher could play DE or DT in Tampa 2

January, 19, 2013
Jan 19
10:00
AM CT
On the Ben and Skin show Friday morning, Cowboys defensive end Jason Hatcher said he spoke with newly-hired defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin briefly about his role.

Hatcher said he could play defensive tackle or end in the 4-3 alignment.

Kiffin wants pass rushers at all four defensive line positions. However, Hatcher could remain at end if the Cowboys don't re-sign or franchise outside linebacker Anthony Spencer, who becomes a free agent in March.

"He still doesn't know where I'm going to play yet," Hatcher said. "I don't know if I'm going to be the Warren Sapp in his 4-3 defense or not. He does have high hopes for me. I'm going to be a big part of this defense, so I'm excited about this role I'll have in this upcoming season. I'm going to embrace it and be the best I can be."

Hatcher is coming off a strong season in which he had a career-high 51 tackles and picked up four sacks. In the last two seasons, Hatcher has 8.5 sacks.

If Hatcher plays inside he might have to stay at about 295-300 pounds to deal with the pounding of taking on guards and centers. Hatcher is at 295 pounds now, but he would like to lose some weight if he plays off the edge.

"We can attack more now, so it won't be much different," Hatcher said. "I'm looking forward to it. That's the way I played in college, just get up field and attack people. I think that's something I'll benefit well from."
Calvin Watkins joined ESPNDallas.com in September 2009. He's covered the Cowboys since 2006 and also has covered colleges, boxing and high school sports.

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