DM Entry: Replacement PCs proposed addendum "DM Pick"

I have an idea to add to our current replacement PC formula, but I thought I might run it past everyone to get opinions about it.

In addition to our replacement PC formula, I propose adding the "DM pick." The DM would choose a class of his choice (a single class) and lay it on the table. If the player making the replacement PC chooses that class, it comes in at +1 level. The DM pick has to be a base class, and if chosen, at least half of your base class levels have to be that class. If you choose the DM pick, you can still use other base classes and prestige classes as normal. The DM picked class will be known before you have to choose to take the DM pick or not.

If we all like this idea, we will start with Xerxes' replacement. The DM pick for this replacement is Paladin from the Player's Handbook (with our house rules for paladins, of course).