Three breakout candidates on defense

Each and every year in the NFL we see players catapulting themselves into the ‘elite’ discussion at their position.

In 2016 saw the emergence of the likes of AJ Bouye, Landon Collins and Jadeveon Clowney. The young stars turned in undeniably improved performances throughout the season, earning respect and recognition around the league.

The breakout phenomenon can be explained by many contributing factors.

But, put simply, it is a player realising his potential as a result of any number of physical or mental upgrades during the offseason. This may be due to scheme comfortability and understanding of the playbook, which only comes with time, or it could be down to a rigorous offseason training programme that adds an extra physical element to their game.

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Whatever it is, stars emerge every season and here is a look at three defensive breakout candidates for the 2017 season.

Shane Ray

The former first round pick out of Mizzou is primed for a monster year opposite Von Miller in Denver. The Broncos don’t have to look far to replace the retired Demarcus Ware as Ray is ready to fill his shoes and then some in 2017.

Ray had eight sacks in eight starts last year and was a constant menace in passing situations. Gaining the full time starting job will allow him to thrive and develop further as a pass rusher as well as a run defender, especially with much of the attention on Miller.

Double teams will rarely be an issue for the third year pro. Thus, he will get every chance to show off the explosiveness that prompted John Elway to take him 23rd overall. His explosion off the edge, combined with the elite company surrounding him, will ensure the Broncos yet again have one of the most feared pass rush duos in the league.

Ray could well post double digit sack numbers and be a shoe in for his first pro bowl come January.

Eli Apple

Apple shone in his rookie year in a strong Giants secondary. The former Buckeye quickly usurped Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie as the starter opposite Janoris Jenkins and displayed excellent coverage skills.

At 6’1, 204lbs, Apple’s size is his best asset and he has worked hard in the offseason to add to his frame. He is reportedly bigger and faster coming into 2017 and his dieting and hard work in the gym will only add to his playing ability, particular when tackling runners in the open field.

Jenkins largely takes responsibility for the number one receiver so Apple will rarely face a Julio Jones type threat. However, that isn’t to say he couldn’t handle it. 7 passes defended and one pick in 2016 in just 11 starts was a promising return for Apple and he should build on that this season.

The 21-year-old will be much more comfortable in Steve Spagnuolo’s defense in year two. On top of that, his size and speed will continue to prove challenging for most receivers. Playing alongside Jenkins and Landon Collins in one of the league’s best secondaries certainly wont hurt his chances of reaching his first pro bowl either.

Dante Fowler Jr

The former third overall pick missed his entire rookie year in 2015 after tearing his ACL in minicamp. He bounced back in 2016 and played in all the Jaguars regular season games.

But he failed to make the kind of impact that saw his draft stock soar so high.

The former Gator started just one game, delivering a mere four sacks. With another offseason under his belt though, Fowler will be a more refined product in 2017. Much like Jadeveon Clowney last season, he should prove his doubters wrong and shake off any bust labels.

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Jacksonville added Calais Campbell to an already impressive defensive front this offseason. The presence of a veteran pro bowler can only help Fowler on and off the field. Double teams won’t be a factor and that should help him gain confidence and deliver a productive season.

His combination of size, speed and explosiveness will shine through eventually and 2017 should be the year for Fowler.