Denver Broncos position preview 2018: Mostly in-tact defensive line has high expectations

Derek Wolfe celebrates after sacking Raiders quarterback Derek Carr in Week 4. During an offseason of change via free agency, trades and the draft, the Broncos addressed all nine position groups.

But aside from veteran Clinton McDonald, general manager John Elway and coach Vance Joseph left the defensive line alone, a nod to the unit’s production in 2017 (first in fewest yards allowed per rushing attempt — 3.3) and their potential this season.

The top seven defensive linemen in snaps played last year are back, led by projected base-down starters Derek Wolfe (end), Adam Gotsis (end) and Domata Peko (nose tackle). Expected to play prominent roles are McDonald (tackle), DeMarcus Walker (end),…