Evaluating the Denver Broncos: Linebackers

Backup Outside Linebackers

Shaquil Barrett

I had the pleasure to interview Shaquil Barrett last summer and this man is very determined and has come a long way. His performance in the preseason earned him a spot on the 53-man roster.

When Demarcus Ware was hurt, Barrett took over and he made the most of his chances. He had a phenomenal game against the Cleveland Browns in Week 6. It always seemed as if whenever the Broncos needed a big play on defense, he would be there in that game.

Oh, and let’s not forget the way he flattened Tom Brady in the Week 12 matchup.

I believe that if the progress continues for Shaq Barrett, he could see a bigger role in the defense.

Shane Ray

The Denver Broncos first round draft pick in last year’s NFL Draft could be quite the steal because of how far he fell on the draft board. We have seen him make some solid plays off the bench, and now perhaps it is the time to see what he can do with extended playing time.

I honestly believe that the next month will tell us if either Barrett or Ray will get the bulk of the playing time with Demarcus Ware taking some time off the field and using the veteran in special packages.

Ray had a solid rookie year as he recorded 20 tackles and four sacks. I am interested to see what he does in year two.

The other outside linebackers Vontarrius Dora, Shaneil Jenkins, Kyle Kragen, and Sadat Sulleyman are figured to be on the roster as training camp bodies. I believe one of the four players will make the roster as the fifth outside linebacker.

Next: Conclusion