Broncos preseason: 5 stars in victory over Texans

Aug 22, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Tom Savage (3) is sacked by Denver Broncos linebacker Shaquil Barrett (48) during the fourth quarter at NRG Stadium. The Broncos defeated the Texans 14-10. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

2. Shaquil Barrett, Edge

Shaquil Barrett is really, really good.

The Broncos unearthed a gem last year, though Barrett could have easily been drafted. And he should have. If he can show out more against the run, Barrett has starter quality skills. He’s just a natural as a pass rusher.

Barrett had a strip sack at the end of the game and though he wasn’t credited for it, had another sack off the other edge earlier in the game. He was getting some reps with the top defensive unit, and appears in line to keep his spot on the 53-man roster, which he was elevated to at the end of last season after spending most of the year on the practice squad.

Pass rushers are so valuable in this league, and with Barrett rounding out a group that already includes Von Miller, DeMarcus Ware, and Shane Ray.

Next: Darius Kilgo