spending money is only part of the equation. What's failing to be recognized it although the D is way behind in overall spending is the fact that they were able to hit on so many prospects in their draft class. They essentially are being paid nickles to the dollar for Turner, Lake, Young, and as yet Jones as well as Kendricks, not to forget Taylor, and Durant. If they add 2-3 more rookies to that group at Edge and DT and LB or CB........yet more talent at rookie prices.
It's not as though with little money spent they have no defensive roster, or a weak roster.....They have IMO a very good core defensively manned by rookie contracts, with more on the way in a month.....To me that's a pretty smart way to do it. Essentially 2 Separate books defensive and offensive....using cap space mostly towards the O and drafting for the D......the trick of course is making sure you are doing the right choices in both.