Denver Broncos

Three Broncos rookies could be in line for starting roles

Published Jun. 22, 2015 10:32 p.m. ET

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John Elway is one of the best at landing college talent, regardless of round.

ESPN's Jeff Legwold thinks Denver's general manager outdid himself by landing three potential rookie starters.

The first two -- Shane Ray and Ty Sambrailo -- should surprise few. Sambrailo is penciled in as the starting left tackle, while Ray is preparing for a breakout first season.

The third? 28-year-old kicker/punter Karl Schmitz, who could save Elway a valuable roster spot by handling all the legwork.

Legwold on Ray: He will immediately be in the rotation in pass-rush situations and used to spell DeMarcus Ware at times. So, "starting" could be semantics at times, but the Broncos have plans for Ray to play premium downs in important situations. They are already working on ways to have Ray, Ware and Von Miller in the formation at the same time.

Legwold on Sambrailo: Gary Kubiak said Sambrailo was "ahead of the curve" in his understanding the game. Initially, the Broncos had hoped Sambrailo would have more time to improve his strength on the way to being a starter in 2016, but circumstances have started the clock sooner. Unless he stumbles unexpectedly in training camp, Sambrailo will start at left tackle this season.

Legwold on Schmitz: He will have to show more as a punter. Some of his work early in the team's offseason program was choppy, and that's to be expected from a player who has essentially worked out on his own for much of the past six years. But if he shows consistency and confidence in training camp, he could win the job.

(h/t ESPN)