The Broncos got everything out of Derek Wolfe that they could have wanted and more. Wolfe started every game at defensive end and played multiple positions on the defensive line. He provided a push up the middle on passing downs and ended the season with six sacks. That sack number should increase in his second season. Don’t be surprised if the Broncos move Wolfe to defensive tackle, his natural position, in an effort to improve the interior pass rush. Wolfe will be a mainstay on the defensive line for many seasons.
Before the playoff game versus the Baltimore Ravens, Ronnie Hillman probably would have received a D but he showed the flashes that everyone has been waiting for in that game. Up until that point, Hillman had been a bit of a disappointment. His inability to pick up the blitz kept him off of the field in many situations and the game often looked too big for him. However after Knowshon Moreno left the Ravens game injured, Hillman stepped in and did admirable job. It is also important to remember that Hillman was the youngest player in the league last season, and will get better. His potential is limitless and the Broncos have big plans for him.
The casual fan may not have noticed but Omar Bolden had a good rookie season, especially on special teams. The cornerback played some on defense but was one of the best players on all of the special team units. He was often the first player in on the tackle and was relentless. The Broncos love Bolden’s potential as a cornerback and his prowess on special teams is a huge bonus.
Maybe the two most impressive draft picks were the last two, with linebacker Danny Trevathan being one of them. The linebacker out of Kentucky played a ton of defensive snaps and got better as the season progressed. Trevathan is the primary reason why DJ Williams got limited playing time after returning from his suspension, the coaches could not get Trevathan off of the field. Expect Trevathan the compete for even more playing time in 2013, and he will be a starter at some point in the next two seasons.
Malik Jackson worked his way up from late round draft pick to being a part of the regular rotation on the defensive line. Jackson’s stats do not tell the story; the Broncos could play him and not worry about a drop off. That kept everyone on the line fresh and they were a big reason for the Broncos success on defense. Jackson, like Trevathan, is only going to improve and will be a part of the defensive line rotation.
It is true that none of the draft picks are going to blow anyone away but not everyone has to be a star. Great teams are built with two or three stars and a lot of very good players. The 2012 draft provided the Broncos with some of those very good players.
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