Cliff Avril started in 11 of the 13 games he played last season at defensive end, finishing with 41 tackles, three forced fumbles and 5.5 sacks. He’s hoping to hold onto the starting role on the left side this season.

He’s got competition from Jared DeVries who missed all of last season after tearing his Achilles in training camp, along with Jason Hunter and Turk McBride.

This could be Avril’s time. Kyle Vanden Bosch, who will hold down the right defensive end spot, has said it took him about four years to get comfortable in the position.

This will be Avril’s third season.

Even though they play on different ends, Avril should be able to improve his game by watching and listening to Vanden Bosch.

(This is a part of a series of 20 players to watch in training camp which opens July 31. Follow me on Twitter @PaulaPasche.)