Outside linebacker: Shane Ray, Denver Broncos
DeMarcus Ware retired this offseason, opening the door for Ray become a full-time starter for the Broncos in 2017.
In his first two years as a pro, the former Missouri star has certainly shown a spark off the edge, tallying 12 sacks. He started eight games last year and came up with eight sacks, adding a defensive touchdown on a recovered fumble.
Ray has high hopes for his upcoming season playing opposite Von Miller — one of the best in the business. He averaged a sack per game in his final season with the Tigers and believes he can do the same as a pro.
“I look at that in the NFL and honestly I feel the same way,” he said, per Jeff Legwold of ESPN. “Nobody can block me for a whole game. One sack a game for me is equivalent to 16 games — that’s 16 sacks. That could lead the league, not to mention playoffs or any of that stuff. That’s how I break stuff down for me, and that’s what I’m going to do.”
The Broncos have some serious talent on defense. Now if only they can get that whole quarterback thing figured out, they might be going places again.