Rock Crawler Leaf Pack

I have a 4.5" RC leaf pack in the rear of my XJ. It currently has 4 straps (?) on each pack. If i want more flex out of the these packs can I cut the 2 inner most straps off to let the shorter leafs move around a little more?

A better plan is to bend them straight and then insert a 1/4" thick piece of steel the same width as the main leaf between the straightened tabs, then pound them back flat against it, then tap it out of there. You get room for the leaves to droop more while maintaining the purpose of the straps, to keep the leafs aligned and prevent overdrooping.