As the Broncos transition to the 3-4 defensive scheme, one of the major differences is going to be the switch for some players from defensive end to a hybrid defensive end/rush linebacker.
One of the great debates of this offseason was who the Broncos would recruit to play such positions, and which players already on the roster would make the switch.
When dissecting Denver’s previous group of defensive ends, it seemed that many, if not all of them, were qualified and perhaps better fit to play as rush linebackers in a 3-4 scheme.
The only problem is, these players will not only have to develop their craft as pass rushers standing up; they will have to learn how to excel in pass coverage.
For what the Broncos may lack in some other areas on defense, they definitely do not have a shortage of high-profile players who will transition to rush linebackers.
Among this group are the players who have led the Broncos in sacks over the last three seasons, two top-20 draft picks, a second-round pick, and a YouTube legend.
One starting spot at this new position will be filled undoubtedly by former fourth-round draft pick Elvis Dumervil.
Dumervil was taken in the 2006 NFL Draft out of Louisville following a stellar collegiate career where he was named first team All-American, Bronko Nagurski Award recipient, and where he finished his senior season with 20 sacks—which is second all-time for a single-season NCAA total.
Why was he picked in the fourth round?
Despite Dumervil’s superior skill as a pass rusher, he stands at only 5′11″ and 248 pounds.
In three seasons with the Broncos, Dumervil has 26 sacks, which are the 13th highest total in the NFL during that time frame. He has started every game for the Broncos over the last two seasons, and is an impact player on this defense.
Despite Dumervil’s career success, many vastly underrate his abilities, especially the people at Madden NFL ‘10, who gave the Broncos’ pass rusher a sub-70 overall rating.
In case one is not in the know—that is horrible.
Even though Dumervil was not carrying a large enough chip on his shoulder for being passed on over three and a half rounds of the 2006 NFL Draft because of his size, he now has this to use as motivation.
Dumervil was quoted earlier this offseason as saying this year’s Denver defense will be “nasty.” He needs to get a lot of pressure on the opposing quarterback in order for that prediction to hold true.
The biggest asset to Dumervil’s game is his …
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