Adam Gotsis figures to play a big role in the Denver Broncos 2018 plans

Adam Gotsis played a huge role in the Denver Broncos defense in 2017. He played over 56% of the snaps for the defense and was a major contributor for a defensive line that were very good at stuffing the run, finishing fifth in yards per game and first in yards per attempt.

Like Derek Wolfe, Gotsis has turned into one of the few second round draft picks that have worked out for John Elway during his time in Denver. In a way, Wolfe has become a bit expendable with the ride of Gotsis as the Broncos still need a pass rushing interior defensive lineman heading into 2018.

Adam Gotsis PFF Grade

According to Pro Footbll Focus, Gotsis was the eighth best 3-4 defensive end in the NFL at stopping the run. That was nine spots above Shelby Harris, while Wolfe did not finish in the top 30.

Gotsis having such a high mark at stopping the run was not surprising, but he also finished as the 18th best 3-4 defensive end at generating an interior pass rush. Though he only had one sack, he generated eleven total pressures despite not seeing the field on passing downs as much as other players on the team.

Overall, Gotsis finished with a 77.1 PFF Grade, which was a marked improvement over his 48.4 rookie grade.

Adam Gotsis Contract

Gotsis is playing under his rookie contract and will continue to be a low-cost starter for the Broncos, which they will need as they retool their roster. After 2018, however, he may need some sort of extension if he continues to play well.

2018 Status

I fully expect Gotsis to figure into the rotation as a starting 3-4 defensive end. He should ultimately replace Wolfe, but I am not sure if 2018 is the right time for that to happen. With the emergence of Shelby Harris, the Broncos have a solid defensive end rotation in place heading into the 2018 regular season.