McVay picked the defense, but I think he allows his DC to decide how it's implemented and who plays.

But I think you hit the nail in your first post when you implied that we should be careful what we wish for because what we get might be worse.
There is a reason why some guys are available, and McVay has reached the bottom of past defensive associates to hire.
It's quite possible that he has another ace up his sleeve, ala Staley, but that's not something we should assume.

It will be interesting to see where he goes if/when Morris leaves.