It kind of depends on the scheme. In a 4-3 some defenses like to blitz the WILL because they are often unblocked on the line and/or are blocked by the RB lined up in the back field. A SAM LBer maybe asked to set the edge and engage the TE. They also often have to cover the TE off the line p, so if can negate the SAM's ability to pass rush.
It,is a little different in the 3-4 because most teams rush 4 anyway and a team can get a little more creative with where they are sending them. So a SAM can be more flexible in coverage and pass rushing.
Of course this is all scheme dependent regardless of alignment.