Defensive scheme transitions can be tough to swallow. We’re watching one of the more painful ones in recent memory, as the Chicago Bears switch from the most traditional 4-3 defense to a 3-4 scheme for the first time ever. One team that this transition has benefited –- or at least not hurt –- is the Denver Broncos. Defensive end Malik Jackson has certainly improved thanks to this shift away from the 4-3 in the Mile High City. A defensive line ‘tweener, Jackson has always been on the big side of what an end should be, but doesn’t have the strength to push the pile at defensive tackle. A 3-4 end now, he has blended his speed and size to accrue 17 total tackles and 3 sacks in his first five games.

In this matchup, he gets to attack the vaunted Cleveland Browns’ offensive line. Despite their reputation, the Browns have allowed the eighth-highest sack percentage in the league, letting opposing front sevens toss Josh McCown around like a rag doll. The run game also hasn’t been the most stalwart either, as they are allowing the 11th-highest stuff percentage among offensive units. There are a number of way for the Denver defense to get points here.

Jackson is available in 96.4% of ESPN IDP leagues, and we project him for around 3.5 tackles, a chance for a sack, and a total score of 4.18 balanced fantasy points in Week 6.