AFC West positional rankings: Breaking down the defensive lines
By Grant Tuttle
OAKLAND, CA – OCTOBER 09: Brandon Mebane #92 of the San Diego Chargers celebrates after intercepting a pass by Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 9, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Defensive Tackle/Defensive Line
1. Brandon Mebane, Los Angeles Chargers
Just another great piece of the defense. Brandon Mebane was a bright spot for the Chargers last season. With other great pieces around him, I expect him to be even more dominant this season. Mebane is extremely strong and can push the pocket. As an experienced Nose Tackle/Defensive Tackle, Mebane provides great leadership in the middle of a young and talented defense.
2016-2017:
30 tackles, 0 sacks, 0 forced fumbles, 0 passes defensed
Prediction:
34 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 0 forced fumbles, 0 passes defensed
2. Domata Peko, Denver Broncos
Another very good experienced vet. Peko came into Denver last year after a long tenure with the Bengals. The Broncos hope that he can continue to be an effective player. At age 33, like Mebane, Peko is a strong leader. However, he may not be able to last much longer.
2016-2017:
38 tackles, 1 sack, 0 forced fumbles, 0 passes defensed
Prediction:
30 tackles, 0.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 0 passes defensed
3. Xavier Williams, Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs had one major defensive goal this off-season: Fix the run defense. Williams was added to the team to anchor the middle of the defensive line. This and the addition of Derrick Nnadi in the draft has the Chiefs hopeful that they will be able to be a force against opposing running backs. Williams has great lower body strength and is difficult to move. This will be a major help to the team as they struggled against the run all season long.
2016-2017: (11 games)
20 sacks, 0.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 0 passes defensed
Prediction:
27 tackles, 0.5 sacks, 0 forced fumbles, 0 passes defensed
4. Justin Ellis, Oakland Raiders
Ellis is an ascending player and could be a surprise this season. At 27, he has shown steady improvement every season. However, I can’t help but wonder if he has reached his peak. The Raiders drafted defensive linemen this year and that could speak to their confidence, or lack there of in Ellis.
2016-2017:
48 tackles, 0.5 sacks, 0 forced fumbles, 0 passes defensed
Prediction:
29 tackles, 0 sacks, 0 forced fumbles, 0 passes defensed