I feel bad for defensive players, I really do. Already at a disadvantage with most of the recent rule changes, the new CBA has also:
1) Removed 2-a-days from training camp
2) Reduced the number of days for training camp
3) Reduced the number of days in a row teams can practice
4) Reduced the number of padded practices teams can have
5) Reduced the amount of live-hitting in practices
Just how are defenders supposed to work on the fundamentals of their craft, namely tackling, when they can barely do it until the season starts? They can work on "fits" at half-speed all they want, but being in the right place at the right time is only half the battle.
Perhaps the #1 defense should work against the #3 offense and be allowed to tackle them.