I don't think a move to the 3-4 is in the works. In reality, you need MORE DT's to play a 3-4. Essentially, the 3-4 uses 3 DT's. Smaller rush ends don't hold up well in the 3-4. Guys like Martin, Trattau, Neal, Wade, Ryan, etc, will not be big enough probably to play a 3-4 DE next season. Hand and Mullen are probably optimal size for a 3-4 DE, though neither is big and stout enough to be a NT at this point. Keep in mind that Hand has lost a ton of weight since arriving.
I think Laws is the only guy with the bulk to hold up as a true 0 technique nose tackle. And it's not even a given that he will be back. Barksdale may be, but he will be a true freshman and asking him to hold the middle alone would be asking a lot. Barksdale won't be too thick to begin with and would make a better 4-3 guy. In the 3-4, he'd probably start out as an end.
You're correct, though, that the flexible guys wuch as Richardson, Wilson, Neal, Martin, etc., could be a good fit as 3-4 OLB and they could put hands down and rush the passer in the nickel.
However, keep in mind, there is little solid LB depth on this team right now. The starters are undersized, which would spell disaster in the 3-4. They aren't much, but they are better protected in the 4-3.
I think the reason for so many LB and athletic DE recruits is simple. There aren't enough on the team right now. This team needs an infusion of playmakers on defense, especially in the front 7. The best way to make sure you get some who can play is to take a lot of them.
I just don't think the personnel fits the 3-4. Maybe in a couple more years, but not yet.
