I sure hope so, but it’s more about subbing them for a defensive end than one of the linebackers. As I’ve said a lot the offseason, they can’t afford to run Chandler and Nink into the ground like they did last year. They need a third defensive end to rotate and hopefully Will Smith is that guy, along with maybe Michael Buchanan, if he develops, as a designated pass rusher.
But as you say, I think the possibilities of Hightower and/or Collins playing a pass rushing role is intriguing. However I don’t think either would be best utilized putting their hand in the dirt as a wide-9 defensive end and simply rushing the passer.
That makes things too simple for a quarterback, especially with two skilled players who can do a lot more.
Simply, Collins and Hightower will be good as blitzers, not as pass rushers. Disguise is the key…not knowing whether they’re dropping or rushing. That’s when blocking assignments get confused or you get an undersized running back trying to block the 270-pound Hightower. Or an immobile guard trying to slide and pick up the uber-athletic Collins.