NFL preseason 2015: Players with most to prove

Dec 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) reacts after an incomplete pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Jets 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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June 9, 2015; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos tackle Ty Sambrailo (74) during mini camp activities at the Broncos training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

Denver Broncos – Ty Sambrailo

Why is he the pick?

Sambrailo is going to be looked at intently by everyone who cares about Peyton Manning. Why? Because this second-round pick out of the University of Colorado is going to be protecting Manning’s blindside. Sambrailo was supposed to be taking over the right side after Orlando Franklin left in free agency for the San Diego Chargers, but Ryan Clady went down with a torn ACL on the left side, opening up another hole.

The Broncos are trying to transition from a passing to running team under new head coach Gary Kubiak. With that in mind, Sambrailo also needs to be proficient in the zone blocking scheme that Kubiak employs to blow holes open for running back C.J. Anderson. No player is under more pressure at Denver’s camp than Sambrailo, who has a ton on his plate.

What is at stake?

Denver’s playoff chances. If Manning takes a handful of brutal hits because Sambrailo whiffs on a pass-rusher, it is all over. The Broncos face the Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs in the first two regular-season games, meaning Sambrailo will be tested by Elvis Dumervil, Terrell Suggs, Tamba Hali and Justin Houston. Welcome to the NFL, kid.

Next: Kansas City Chiefs

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