Seahawks: Projected 2016 starters and the next man up

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January 10, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive end Cliff Avril (56) celebrates after sacking Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) during the second half in the 2014 NFC Divisional playoff football game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Left Defensive End

Starter: Cliff Avril

Backup: Cassius Marsh

The Seahawks no longer split one of their defensive ends out in the nine-technique “LEO” spot like they did early in Pete Carroll’s tenure. They figured out fairly quickly that Cliff Avril could be effective as a pass rusher without having to line up so far outside the offensive tackle.

Avril doesn’t get the press that Bennett does, but he has quietly been just as effective at getting to the QB. Avril would finish much higher in sack totals if the Seahawks didn’t do such a good job of rotating their defensive lineman and getting Avril breaks.

This is a big year for Avril’s backup. Cassius Marsh flashed tremendous potential in training camp and the preseason last year, but it never materialized in the regular season. Marsh must prove this year that he can be productive if he hopes to cash in when he hits free agency.

Next: Nose Tackle

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