Manny Lawson

From 2008-2013 Lawson averaged nearly 14 games started per season in the NFL. Over that span he averaged 56 tackles and 3.25 sacks per year. In 2014 he didn't start any games but appeared in all 16, getting credit for just 20 tackles and 1.5 sacks. This is likely a case of a proven veteran who is slowing down and accepting a role as a rotational piece in one of the most talented defensive lines in the NFL.

Lawson had a solid fantasy season last year and looks to build on it this year, but there is a chance he could disappoint. His track record is a little less than what he produced in 2013 and he has more competition for the starting role in 2014.

Manny Lawson was added to the Bills in free agency as the presumed starter at strong-side linebacker. A better real-life player than a fantasy player, Lawson uses his 6'6" frame to shut down opposing tight ends.

Lawson will start at linebacker and look to build on a successful first season in Cincinnati, where he made 52 tackles and recorded 1.5 sacks.

Lawson skipped all voluntary offseason workouts as he seeks a long-term contract extension, but did report for mandatory minicamp. He'll start at outside linebacker this season, and look to improve on his monster 68 tackle, 6.5 sack 2009 season. However, be wary that Ahmad Brooks may cut into Lawson's sack opportunities when Brooks enters as a situational pass rusher.

Lawson lacks the closing speed and pass rush moves to take down opposing quarterbacks, but he is a sound tackler who has the ability to apply pressure and drop back into coverage. He will start at outside linebacker.

Lawson is expected to return from a knee injury that ended his 2007 season, and could provide value as an IDP.

Lawson was basically a non-factor as a pass-rusher last year as a rookie, notching 2.5 sacks on the year with two of them coming in Week 2 against the Rams. Where he did show improvement was in pass coverage, as he gained more confidence in that roll as the season wore on. This year, as the left outside linebacker in the 3-4 scheme, Lawson should be turned loose as a pass rusher and by knowing the defense, his natural skills are expected to come to the forefront as he can now react instead of needing that extra second to read and then react.

Selected as the 49ers' second, first-round pick in the 2005 draft, Lawson will get the chance to start at outside linebacker, replacing Julian Peterson, in the team's 3-4 scheme. Look for him to be one of the 49ers' best pass rushers and double-digits in sacks is not out of the question.