Denver Broncos 2015 Breakout Player Predictions

Dec 7, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive end Malik Jackson (97) reacts after making a sack in the second quarter against the Buffalo Bills at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

2. Malik Jackson, DE

I know Jackson has already emerged in a way for the Broncos, but consider that he played just over half as many snaps as guys like Chris Harris Jr. or Rahim Moore. He played 578 snaps last year compared to Von Miller’s 926.

Also consider that the Broncos’ stud defensive end wasn’t even a ‘starter’ last season.

I know this is a bit of a stretch, but if someone can make a name for themselves this year, it’s Malik Jackson, who will now be an every-down defensive end for the Broncos in their new 3-4 defense under Wade Phillips.

Even if he plays just 150 more snaps or so, I think we’ll see Jackson have possibly a breakout Pro Bowl campaign in his contract year. I’m definitely going out on a limb by saying that Jackson is going to have a breakout year, but all indications are, he’s ready to make a leap that even we as Broncos fans haven’t seen from a guy that could be best described as one of the top “sixth men” in the NFL the last couple of years.

Jackson made the top 101 on Pro Football Focus this past year, so he’s already established as a top flight player in the league, but now is the time to break out and emerge as one of the league’s truly elite.

Next: Sylvester Williams