Sure. Hairston has to learn McDermotts complex zone defense first.
This takes time and Elam never really learned it and could never use his natural athletism to fit in. That's why he's gone.
Hopefully Hairston is a cerebral enough player to pick it up and fit in and doesn't fall into that same Elam trap.
Until that happens White will be the starter.
Same reason Hamlin is the starting safety. He's a "cerebral" player but certainly not athleticlly gifted