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Denver Broncos breakout players for 2017: Paxton Lynch leads the charge

By Sayre Bedinger

Jun 13, 2017; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Paxton Lynch (12) throws during minicamp at UCHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 13, 2017; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Paxton Lynch (12) throws during minicamp at UCHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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Todd Davis
Sep 18, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos inside linebacker Todd Davis (51) during player introductions prior to the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Todd Davis, Linebacker

Andy Tallon, Staff Writer

The Denver Broncos defense is stacked, but many would find it surprising who the leading tackler on such a dynamic defense was in 2016. That honor goes to Todd Davis, 25 year inside linebacker, who had 97 combined tackles on one of the best units in the league.

When the Broncos won the Super Bowl after the 2015 season, it lost one of its biggest contributors – Danny Trevathan. With Trevathan’s departure, there was a hole in the middle of the defense that needed filling. Enter Todd Davis, who was up for the challenge of taking over for one of the NFL’s best inside linebackers.

As the 2017 season approaches, Todd Davis is ready for a breakout year as a full time starter in the linebacking corps. Davis also has the capability of making an even larger impact as his running mate, Brandon Marshall, returns to the field in full health. With Marshall’s leadership, Davis’s game should take flight as he continues to learn the nuances of the position.

Davis looks to best last season and be the leading tackler on the team for a second year in a row. Davis’s most important challenge is refining his coverage skills that are necessary for a 3-4 ILB. Once he has the opportunity to master smothering opposing tight ends and slot receivers to go along with his innate ability to find the ball carrier, the Broncos will have one of the best tandems in the league.

Davis has been quoted as “wanting to be better” and knowing he has “areas to improve on.”

As Davis improves, the cohesion in the Broncos front seven will follow – which will be crucial for the defense to keep their winning ways. The inside linebacker position is often the “quarterback” of the defense and Davis looks to step into this role along with Marshall as the leader of the pack.

Davis began breaking out in 2016, but it will be a big leap to exceed last year’s contributions. If Davis can do this, look for a bright future for the young Broncos’ inside linebacker.

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