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ENGLEWOOD, COLO. (AP) -- Wesley Woodyard is gearing up for a bigger role than ever with the Denver Broncos.

The fifth-year pro is coming off a year in which he piled up career highs in tackles (97), starts (seven) and forced fumbles (two) while replacing middle linebacker Joe Mays on passing downs and making spot starts at weakside linebacker for D.J. Williams.

Williams, who led the team in tackles after missing the first three games with an elbow injury, is facing a six-game drug suspension to start the 2012 season. He also has an Aug. 15 trial on misdemeanor driving under the influence and traffic charges.

Williams' troubles might give Woodyard the chance to have much more than a rotational role in Denver's 4-3 scheme next season, especially early on.

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