After recording 11.5 sacks as a rookie in 2011, Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller had a huge breakout season in 2012, totaling 18.5 sacks.
Bradley Chubb recorded 12 sacks as a rookie last year — could he see a similar jump in production as Miller in his second season?
Denver’s coaching staff seems to think that’s possible.
“I know that guys like him, with his character and his work ethic, they usually spike in Year 2,” defensive coordinator Ed Donatell said of Chubb after practice on June 5. “He’s just a heck of a talent and he works hard every day. You should see really great play from him.”
Broncos head coach Vic Fangio, a linebacker guru, agreed with Donatell’s assessment.
“He’s tailor-made for us,” Fangio said. “I think he’ll take the next step just because he’s a pro . . . . He’s a very smart football player, very coachable, very intense. I see nothing but bright days ahead for him.”
Chubb (6-4, 269 pounds) is “tailor-made” for Denver’s defense because he can both rush the passer and defend the run.
“The edge players are very important in this 3-4 defense Vic and I have been running these for the last eight years,” Donatell said. “You need guys that can compress the edge and then you need somebody who can rush the passer.
“He can do both of those and he’s very forceful in doing that. We’re happy to have him. We think he can be very productive in that role.”
Chubb was a Pro Bowl alternate last year. If he makes the kind of jump Fangio and Donatell believe he can this season, the edge defender will likely earn his first All-Star nod in 2019.
