What's the most important position in the 3-4 defense?

Safety is the most important position on defense. Want examples of great play from safeties? Please see the 2000 & 2011-2012 Ravens, 2005-2010 Steelers, 2009 Saints, 2011-2012 49ers.

Linebackers are the most notable in a 3-4 because they usually make the biggest plays in a game. And the position that makes the linebackers look good are the three, 2-gapping linemen that free them up to make plays. 1-gapping linemen can make plays themselves, but leave the (particularly the middle) linebackers out to dry.

Defense is only as good as the weakest link. One player can ruin the whole effort. Who cares how well #33 covered someone when #21 can't. Last year the Saints had multiple weak links.

But all that aside, in the end, Safety is the most important position on defense because they cover up for all the mistakes the 9 guys in front of them make.