The Broncos' defensive line was perceived to be arguably the team's greatest weakness heading into the season, but it has been a very stout group thus far, and observers say no member of the three-man front has impressed more than NT Ronald Fields. Teams have had very little success running up the middle — or anywhere for that matter, as Denver ranks third vs. the run — with Fields using his strong, compact frame to disrupt plays. The fifth-year veteran signed with Denver in the offseason after spending the first four years of his career with the 49ers under then-head coach Mike Nolan, who now serves as the Broncos' defensive coordinator. The 6-2, 314-pound Fields isn't big for a nose tackle and there was concern about whether he could handle such a key role in the club's 3-4 "D," but he has done a fine job of keeping blockers away from ILBs D.J. Williams and Andra Davis.

PFW has launched its brand-new NFL Draft Newsletter series, with the first issue now ready for mailing. Produced by PFW's player personnel department under the direction of Nolan Nawrocki, the series consists of four information-packed issues. For more info or to subscribe — click here for PDF e-pub or here for print format.