Last year defensive linemen such as Jay Ratliff and Mathias Kiwanuka emerged and showed that they could be disruptive forces up front. As the league continues to become more passing oriented, it is very important to get young talent to rush the quarterback. Here are some defensive linemen that I think could breakout this year.
Derrick Harvey Jaguars: Due to the long holdout through training camp, Harvey didn't get to show all of his talent in his rookie season. He showed lots of potential but it was very hard to makeup all of the lost practice time. Harvey now has a year of the playbook under his belt and will be depended on to give the Jaguars a consistent pass rusher off the edge. Don't be surprised if he has around 8 sacks this year.
Chris Long Rams: Long played well in his rookie season but should make great strides under Steve Spagnuolo this year. Spagnuolo during his time as defensive coordinator for the Giants was surrounded by great pass rushers such as Michael Strahan, Osi Umenyiora and Justin Tuck. Look for this to only be the beginning for Long as he will become one of the premiere defensive ends in the league.
Cliff Avril Lions: The Lions defense wasn't very good last year, but Avril's second half performance was a bright spot. In his last six games, Avril had four of his five sacks and showed some of his potential. He is very fast off the edge and should be one of the building blocks as the Lions defense improves.
Jason Jones Titans: After drawing heavy criticism after being drafted in the second round, Jones is showing how he could prove them all wrong. He will be needed to fill the very large shoes that Albert Haynesworth left as the Titans are a team that is dedicated to stopping the run. Jones showed that he can also rush the passer and could become one of the league's better young player's upfront.
Sedrick Ellis Saints: Ellis showed lots of potential in his rookie year and is one of the key component's on an improving Saints defense. He has a very big frame and showed that he can stop the run and rush the passer. Now that Ellis is fully healthy from his arthroscopic surgery, look for him to emerge into one of the top run stoppers in the league.
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