Defensive Line Break Down

After the 2008 season and amid all the drama with the Shanahan firing, Cutler trade and Brandon Marshall's off field adventures popular opinion was that the defensive front seven would be a focus of the Broncos in the off season. It turns out that while there where plenty of new faces no real impact player was added.



Ronald Fields 6'2" 314 was the starting nose tackle. Starting NT in the 3-4 is more about disruption and taking on blocks to free up the inside linebackers then sacks and tackles. Fields did a fine job primarily at the beginning of the season and was second among Bronco defensive linemen in tackles. I would hope someone a little bigger will step up next year if we are to improve our run defense. Chris Baker or Carlton Powell have a shot.



Ryan McBean 6'5" 297 was a second year starter that had a solid year and will compete to stay in the defensive line rotation.

Kenny Petterson 6'3" 265 7th year player that made some big plays I believe he is the most secure of the starting D linemen to retain his starting role.

Vonnie Holiday 6'5" 285 was second in sacks on the team the 12 year veteran brings experience to otherwise fairly young line and should be back.

Chris Baker 6'2" 329 listed as the 3rd NT in my opinion has the best chance of anyone on the roster to be the dominant nose tackle we need to run the 3-4. Many thought he was the second best nose tackle in the 09 draft perhaps a 2nd or 3rd round pick. Off the field problems forced his transfer from Penn State to Hampton University and dropped him completely out of the draft. Over come the off the field distractions and after one year on the team I look for Chris Baker to be a force on the Broncos front in 2010.

Marcus Thomas 6'3" 316 listed as the second string NT lead the defensive line in tackles. I see Marcus as a better fit as a 3-4 defensive end if Chris Baker improves at NT next year.

LeKevin Smith 6'3" 308, Everette Pedescleaux, and J'Vonne Parker will add depth and compete for a roster spot.

Carlton Powell 6'2" 312 spent his rookie year 2008 on the PUP list after injuring his right achilles tendon. This next year will be his make or break he either catches on with Denver or will likely be a journeyman Defensive Lineman.

Look for the Broncos to get at least 5 new faces to compete for time in the defensive line rotation. Increasing the size is a must to take some heat of the linebackers so they can flow to the ball carrier.

The key may be who is going to be the new defensive coordinator.