No explanation of why the Broncos' defense will improve this season can be complete without mentioning Malik Jackson.
He holds an interesting distinction: he may be the fourth-best known pass rusher on his team but he ranked as the third-most productive 4-3 defensive end in the NFL last season.
Jackson carries a lower profile than Von Miller, DeMarcus Ware, and at least for now, first-round draft pick Shane Ray. Jackson, though, believes he will transition seamlessly to the new 3-4 scheme run by defensive coordinator Wade Phillips after a first look this week.
"I think it will be a good fit just from going through the motions as far learning the plays and going out here and doing it so far.